Oval Plaza Forum
A unique elliptical Roman plaza framed by Ionic columns, offering a glimpse into ancient urban design and public life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Oval Plaza Forum
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique elliptical Roman plaza framed by Ionic columns, offering a glimpse into ancient urban design and public life.
"The Oval Plaza looks spectacular! You can see the pillars all around you and just imagine how people used to meet and walk around this area."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ancient stone paving is uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring the vast Oval Plaza.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the site is largely exposed with limited shade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unique Elliptical Shape
Oval Plaza
A rare, large elliptical plaza surrounded by Ionic colonnades, designed to connect different city axes.
Ionic Colonnades
Oval Plaza
Admire the 56 Ionic columns that gracefully frame the plaza, showcasing ancient Roman architectural prowess.
Stone Paving
Oval Plaza
Walk on massive limestone slabs, intricately paved to create a grand and durable surface for public gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Oval Plaza
Comfortable Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ancient stone paving is uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring the vast Oval Plaza.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the site is largely exposed with limited shade.
📸 Capture the Scale
Get a higher vantage point from the Southern Theater or Temple of Zeus for stunning panoramic views of the plaza.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit; exploring the Oval Plaza and its surroundings can take a couple of hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ancient stone paving is uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring the vast Oval Plaza.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the site is largely exposed with limited shade.
📸 Capture the Scale
Get a higher vantage point from the Southern Theater or Temple of Zeus for stunning panoramic views of the plaza.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit; exploring the Oval Plaza and its surroundings can take a couple of hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and architectural magnificence of the Oval Plaza Forum, marveling at its unique elliptical shape and well-preserved Ionic colonnades. Many appreciate the opportunity to imagine ancient life within its vast expanse. Some note that the site requires significant walking and can be hot, advising visitors to plan accordingly.
"The oval plaza looks spectacular!
You can see the pillars all around you and just imagine how people used to meet and walk around this area. It is a pretty big area that you would enjoy looking around and explore."
Zaki NZ
"A large open area full of old artifacts that are very well preserved. The square is about 90 meters in diameter which is very large for the time it was build. Imagine standing here during that time when it was all buzzing with people selling and trading. Must have been a sight in itself.
Make sure you have time enough here since it will take a couple of hours to see all."
Robin de Bruin
"A fairly large ancient square, surrounded by columns and paved with massive stone slabs. For an nice view of it, climb the stands of the Southern Theater or the Temple of Zeus."
Paul Ciprian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oval Plaza Forum is located within the Jerash Archaeological Site in Jordan. Most visitors arrive by car or taxi from Amman, which is about an hour's drive away. Organized tours often include transportation.
Yes, there is a dedicated parking area available at the entrance to the Jerash Archaeological Site. It's usually ample enough for visitors arriving by car.
While less common for tourists, local buses do run from Amman to Jerash. However, they may not drop you directly at the archaeological site, requiring a short taxi ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Oval Plaza Forum is part of the Jerash Archaeological Site, which typically opens daily from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, depending on the season. It's best to check the official Jordan Tourism Board website for the most current hours.
Admission fees vary, but a typical ticket for the Jerash Archaeological Site, which includes access to the Oval Plaza Forum, costs around 10-15 Jordanian Dinars for foreigners. Consider purchasing a Jordan Pass if you plan to visit multiple sites in Jordan.
No, advance booking is generally not required for the Jerash Archaeological Site. You can purchase tickets at the visitor center upon arrival.
Yes, licensed guides are usually available for hire at the entrance of the Jerash Archaeological Site. They can provide in-depth historical context for the Oval Plaza and other ruins.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Take your time to walk around the entire perimeter, appreciating the scale and the details of the Ionic columns. Imagine the bustling activity that once took place here.
The site has uneven ancient stone paving and some inclines, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. While some areas are more accessible than others, it's advisable to proceed with caution.
For panoramic shots, climb the stands of the Southern Theater or the Temple of Zeus. Up close, focus on the details of the columns and the intricate paving.
To truly appreciate its grandeur and explore the surrounding areas, allocate at least 1-2 hours specifically for the Oval Plaza and its immediate vicinity.
It served as a grand plaza connecting different axes of the city, notably the Roman Cardo and the Sanctuary of Zeus. Its unique elliptical shape was an architectural solution to integrate these intersecting pathways. 
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Avoid midday when the sun is harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the plaza and the surrounding colonnades. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details.
Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites in Jordan for preservation and security reasons. It's best to check with local authorities or the site management before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as facilities can be limited. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for everyone. Consider a guided tour to keep younger minds engaged with stories and historical facts. The uneven terrain might be challenging for strollers, so a carrier might be more practical for very young children.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Pack your own lunch and water to save on on-site costs. Consider joining a small group tour from Amman if you don't have your own transport, as this can be more economical than a private taxi. Public transport is an option but requires more planning and time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of the Oval Plaza
+1The plaza is elegantly framed by 56 Ionic columns, which add a sense of grandeur and order. The paving itself is a marvel, composed of massive limestone slabs. This intricate paving required the construction of a substantial substructure, 6 to 8 meters high, to compensate for a natural depression in the ground, showcasing the Romans' dedication to creating level and impressive public spaces.
Visitors often remark on the sheer scale and the feeling of stepping back in time. The well-preserved nature of the ruins allows for a vivid imagination of the bustling commercial and social life that once thrived here. It's a space that invites contemplation of ancient urban planning and architectural ingenuity.
Experiencing Jerash: Beyond the Oval Plaza
Explore the South Theater, which could seat thousands and still hosts performances today, providing a remarkable acoustic experience. The Temple of Zeus, perched on a hill, offers commanding views over the entire site, including the Oval Plaza. Wandering through the Cardo Maximus, the main colonnaded street, allows you to visualize the city's commercial heart.
Many visitors recommend dedicating at least half a day, if not a full day, to fully explore Jerash. The sheer size and the wealth of well-preserved structures make it one of the most significant Roman sites outside of Italy, often earning it the moniker 'Pompeii of the Middle East.'
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