As-Salt, also known as Salt, is a cool ancient city in Jordan that's got some serious history vibes. It's nestled in the Balqa highland, surrounded by three hills and close to the Jordan Valley. The place was once a major trading hub, with Romans, Byzantines, and Mameluks all adding their two cents to its growth. In the late 19th century, the Ottomans made it their regional capital, bringing in folks from all over their empire. Nowadays, As-Salt is home to around 107,874 peeps and even made it onto the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2021. So yeah, it's pretty legit!
Things to Do in Al Salt
1. Explore the Historic Old Town
• Al Hammam Street: Stroll down this lively street lined with traditional shops, cafes, and bakeries. Savor local sweets like knafeh and baklava as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
• Abu Jaber House (Al Salt Archaeological and Folklore Museum): Discover the rich history of Al Salt through artifacts, photographs, and traditional clothing in this beautifully restored Ottoman-era mansion.
2. Visit Key Landmarks
• Great Mosque of Al Salt: Admire the stunning architecture of this prominent mosque, which serves as a significant religious and cultural center in the city.
• Al Khader Church: This Greek Orthodox church is a testament to the city’s religious diversity and features intricate frescoes and mosaics.
3. Experience Local Culture
• Al Ain Plaza: Known as the heart of Al Salt, this bustling plaza is the perfect place to experience local life. Enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee and watch as locals go about their daily routines.
• Al Maidan Square: This central square is surrounded by historical buildings and is a great spot for people-watching and photography.
4. Discover Architectural Marvels
• Sukhneh: Wander through this historic neighborhood filled with beautifully preserved Ottoman buildings, narrow alleys, and charming courtyards.
• Al Salt Heritage Trail: Follow this trail to explore significant landmarks and architectural gems. Don’t miss the impressive houses of prominent Salt families like Abu Jaber and Al Qaqish.
5. Indulge in Traditional Cuisine
• Local Eateries: Taste traditional Jordanian dishes at local restaurants. Try mansaf (a lamb and rice dish), musakhan (chicken with onions and sumac), and maqluba (a layered rice and meat dish).
• Sweet Shops: Visit local sweet shops to enjoy Jordanian desserts such as knafeh, baklava, and awameh.
6. Enjoy Panoramic Views
• Mount Nebo: Just a short drive from Al Salt, this historic site offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. It is believed to be the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land.
• Panoramic Views from Salt: Head to one of the city’s many viewpoints for stunning vistas over the surrounding countryside and the distant skyline of Amman.
The Abu Jaber Museum: also known as the Historic Old Salt Museum, is a significant cultural landmark in As-Salt, Jordan. Housed in the Abu Jaber House, this museum offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. Since its transformation into a museum in 2010, the Abu Jaber House has showcased:
• Artifacts from the Copper Age, including pottery from Tililat al-Ghassul
• Roman and Ayyubid-Mamluk era items like bronze bracelets and water jars
• Displays highlighting As-Salt’s golden age between the late 19th century and 1930s
The museum also delves into the city’s social history, emphasizing its role as a regional hub during the Ottoman period.
📍 Visitor Information
• Location: Prince Hasan Bin Talal Street, As-Salt, Jordan
• Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Summer), 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Winter)
• Admission: Free
