North Bridge
The North Bridge, or Arch of Trajan, is a monumental Roman gateway in Jerash, showcasing impressive architecture and historical significance.
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Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
North Bridge
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The North Bridge, or Arch of Trajan, is a monumental Roman gateway in Jerash, showcasing impressive architecture and historical significance.
"The North Bridge is very well preserved and adds to the site's other wonders."
☀️ Early Bird Gets the View
Visit the North Gate before noon to avoid the sun on your face during your walk back.
🚶♀️ Start Your Jerash Journey
The North Gate is a great starting point for exploring the Cardo Maximus and the rest of Jerash.
Highlights
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Arch of Trajan
North Gate, Jerash
A grand dedication to Emperor Trajan, this arch marks the northern entrance and showcases Roman architectural prowess.
Restored North Gate
North Gate, Jerash
The smaller, fully restored northern gate, built with blocks from the original structure, offers a glimpse into ancient city defenses.
Byzantine Bastions
North Gate, Jerash
Later additions to the gate, these flanking bastions speak to the site's continuous use and adaptation through different eras.
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Navigating the North Gate Area
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Early Bird Gets the View
Visit the North Gate before noon to avoid the sun on your face during your walk back.
🚶♀️ Start Your Jerash Journey
The North Gate is a great starting point for exploring the Cardo Maximus and the rest of Jerash.
🏛️ Understand the History
Note the dedication to Trajan and how the gate's orientation aligns with ancient roads.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Early Bird Gets the View
Visit the North Gate before noon to avoid the sun on your face during your walk back.
🚶♀️ Start Your Jerash Journey
The North Gate is a great starting point for exploring the Cardo Maximus and the rest of Jerash.
🏛️ Understand the History
Note the dedication to Trajan and how the gate's orientation aligns with ancient roads.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the North Bridge as a well-preserved and historically significant part of the Jerash archaeological site. Its role as a grand entrance and its architectural details are frequently highlighted. Some note the importance of visiting early to avoid sun and crowds, and appreciate the insights gained from understanding its historical context.
"The North Gate, the end of the line... I believe it's the smaller of the Gates. It appears to be fully restored.
If you plan to visit the North Gate my advice is do it before noon, otherwise you will have the sun on your face the whole way back."
Jose E. Coello
"The Arch of Trajan is the northern gate of the city of Jerash. After the earthquake of 113-14 AD damaged the city, rebuilding took place under Trajan's imperial patronage; hence, the new arched north gate's dedication to Trajan as the "founder and savior of the city" in 115 AD.
This new North Gate was built about five meters to the north of the previous destroyed gate and blocks from the original gate were used to lay its foundations.
The two faces of the gate are not parallel to each other, being the north side tilted by 18 degrees. This was a device to allow the gate to line up in a straight line with the road to Pella to the north as well as with the Cardo Maximus to the south.
The flanking bastions were later Byzantine additions. And it seems that for a time the Arch of Trajan was a freestanding monument until the walls were added at a later time.
The dedication to Trajan is visible above the arch on the south side."
Jesús D
"In the 63 AD Roman period the city of Jerash achieved great prosperity. In AD 106, the Emperor Trajan constructed roads throughout the province, and more trade came to Jerash.
The North Gate of Jerash, Roman Gerasa,
Dedicated to Trajan in 115 CE and the main entrance gate of the city.
The North Decumanus* and the northern part of the Cardo were laid out in the late 1st century AD as part of the overall planning of the city. However, the paving of the North Decumanus and the addition of colonnades did not take place until later, probably starting in 165/166 AD, when a representative access road to the meeting place of the city delegates in the bouleuterion (North Theater), and to other city facilites in the area west of the Cardo was needed. However, this east-west connection was probably never completed, because it did not reach the northwest gate, and east of the Tetrapylon the road remained unpaved and without colonnades.(Universes of universe)"
LbGuide
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Bridge (North Gate) is a primary entrance to the ancient city of Jerash. If you're arriving by car, there's parking available near the site. Public transport options like taxis or buses from Amman are also common. Many visitors start their exploration of Jerash from this northern point.
Yes, the North Bridge is a prominent landmark and a main entry point to the Jerash archaeological site. It's clearly signposted and easily accessible from the main roads leading to the city.
The most popular ways to travel from Amman to Jerash are by taxi or by local bus. Taxis offer more flexibility and comfort, while buses are a more budget-friendly option. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the North Bridge is part of the Jerash archaeological site, and an entrance ticket is required to access it and explore the ancient city. You can purchase tickets at the visitor center upon arrival.
Opening hours for Jerash typically vary by season, but it's generally open from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire at the visitor center for the most current hours.
Ticket prices for Jerash can vary, but they are generally affordable. The cost usually includes access to the entire archaeological site, including the North Bridge. Consider purchasing a Jordan Pass if you plan to visit multiple sites in Jordan.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The North Bridge, also known as the Arch of Trajan, served as the northern gate of the ancient Roman city of Gerasa. It was dedicated to Emperor Trajan and is a testament to the city's prosperity and Roman engineering.
Adjacent to the North Bridge, you can find the North Theater and the Church of Isaiah. Walking south from the bridge leads you along the Cardo Maximus, the main colonnaded street of Jerash.
Yes, the North Bridge is described as very well-preserved and adds significantly to the wonders of the Jerash site. It's a key feature for understanding the city's layout and history.
Many visitors find it convenient to start at the North Bridge and walk south along the Cardo Maximus, exploring the various temples, theaters, and other structures. This provides a natural progression through the ancient city.
Yes, guided tours are often available at Jerash, which can greatly enhance your understanding of the history and significance of sites like the North Bridge. You can usually hire a guide at the visitor center.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for children, pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure they wear comfortable shoes for walking. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning, to prevent heat exhaustion. While the site is largely open, be mindful of uneven terrain. The North Theater nearby is also a great spot for kids to explore and imagine performances.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Delving into the details of the North Bridge's construction, its dedication to Emperor Trajan, and its role as a primary entrance provides a rich understanding of Jerash's past. Consider researching the Roman Decapolis and Jerash's place within it before your visit to fully appreciate the context. The site's preservation allows for an immersive experience, bringing the ancient world to life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of the North Bridge
The gate itself is a testament to Roman engineering, with its construction incorporating blocks from a previous, damaged gate. The two faces of the arch are not parallel, a deliberate design choice to align with both the Cardo Maximus to the south and the road to Pella to the north. Later, during the Byzantine era, flanking bastions were added, indicating the site's continued importance and adaptation over centuries. The dedication to Trajan is still visible above the arch on the south side, a lasting inscription of its historical context.
Exploring the North Bridge offers a tangible connection to the past. It's not just an archway but a symbol of Roman urban planning and imperial patronage. Understanding its historical context, from its initial construction to later modifications, enriches the visitor's experience and provides a deeper appreciation for the scale and sophistication of ancient Jerash.
Visiting Jerash: Practical Tips from Travelers
For those starting their exploration at the North Bridge, it's advised to walk south along the Cardo Maximus. This provides a logical flow through the ancient city and allows you to see the major attractions in sequence. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be covering a lot of ground on uneven surfaces. Staying hydrated is also crucial, especially during warmer months, so bring plenty of water or purchase it at the site.
While Jerash is generally considered safe for travelers, including female visitors, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings. The Jordan Pass is a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple historical sites in Jordan, as it often includes entry to Jerash. Finally, consider hiring a local guide at the visitor center to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the ruins, including the North Bridge.
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