HomeHistory-And-CultureThe-Roots-Of-Amman-A-Historical-Overview

The Roots of Amman: A Historical Overview

From Antiquity to Modern Day

Amman, the vibrant capital of Jordan, is a city steeped in history, tracing its roots back to the Neolithic period. Archaeological discoveries indicate human settlement in the area over 10,000 years ago, marking Amman as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Originally named Rabbath Ammon, after the ancient Ammonites who occupied the region, it later became known as Philadelphia during the Hellenistic period, a name bestowed upon it by Ptolemy II Philadelphus.

In Roman times, Philadelphia flourished as a member of the Decapolis, a group of ten cities on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire, guarded by the Roman legions. The city was an important center for trade and intellectual exchange, and its remnants, including the famous Roman amphitheater, still stand testament to its illustrious past.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Amman returned to its roots in name and culture. The Umayyads left a significant mark on the city during their rule, especially visible in the form of the Qasr al-Kharrana and other architectural marvels. Over the centuries, Amman saw periods of decline and prosperity, influenced by the many empires that sought control over the strategically vital region.

The late 19th century marked a significant turning point as Amman was chosen as a stopping point on the Hijaz Railway, igniting economic growth and modern development. Amman became the capital of the Emirate of Transjordan in 1921 and later the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 1946. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience and dynamism of its people, a city that seamlessly blends its storied past with a modern, cosmopolitan outlook.

Key Historical Periods and Their Impact on Amman

Amman's history can be divided into several key periods, each contributing uniquely to its development:

  • Ammonite Period (13th - 7th Century BCE): This era saw the establishment of Amman as Rabbath Ammon. The Ammonites, known for their skilled craftsmanship and pottery, laid foundational cultural characteristics that persisted in the region.

  • Hellenistic and Roman Eras (4th Century BCE - 4th Century CE): This era was characterized by significant architectural developments, such as the construction of temples, theaters, and public baths, indicating the city's integration into the Greco-Roman world.

  • Islamic Era and the Umayyad Empire (7th - 10th Century CE): Marked by Islamic conquest, this period saw the construction of significant structures like the Umayyad Palace, contributing to the city’s spiritual and political importance.

  • Ottoman Rule (16th - 20th Century CE): Amman experienced periods of both neglect and revitalization under Ottoman rule, serving as a rural outpost before becoming a pivotal part of the region’s infrastructure with the Hijaz Railway.

  • 20th Century to Present: A period of rapid modernization and development, including its establishment as the capital of the newly independent Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the city's expansion and modernization in the wake of regional conflicts and waves of immigration.

Influential Figures in Amman's History

  • King Abdullah I: The founder of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, who chose Amman as the capital of Transjordan in 1921, setting the stage for its rise as a prominent Middle Eastern city.

  • Ptolemy II Philadelphus: The Hellenistic ruler after whom the city was renamed Philadelphia, reflecting the Hellenistic influence and its integration into the Greco-Roman cultural and economic sphere.

  • Caliph Al-Walid I: Under his Umayyad rule, significant Islamic architectural projects were undertaken in Amman, leaving a lasting imprint on the city's cultural and architectural landscape.

  • King Hussein of Jordan: His reign from 1952 to 1999 was marked by significant modernization and expansion of Amman, overseeing its transformation into a metropolitan hub.

Each of these historical periods and figures contributed to the complex tapestry of Amman, creating a multifaceted historical narrative that continues to influence the city's cultural and social fabric today.