
North Theater
An ancient Roman amphitheater in Jerash, Jordan, renowned for its impressive scale and astonishing natural acoustics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures

North Theater
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient Roman amphitheater in Jerash, Jordan, renowned for its impressive scale and astonishing natural acoustics.
"The North Theater remains an engineering marvel and the must-see highlight of our trip."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking to the theater and climbing ancient stone seats.
☀️ Sun Protection is a Must
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water due to limited shade.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Roman Amphitheater
Jerash Archaeological Site
Marvel at the impressive capacity and grand design of this ancient theater, once seating thousands.

Incredible Acoustics
Stage area
Experience the theater's natural amplification by speaking or singing from the stage and hearing your voice echo.

Panoramic City Views
Upper seating tiers
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient city of Jerash from the top of the theater.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Sun Protection & Hydration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking to the theater and climbing ancient stone seats.
☀️ Sun Protection is a Must
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water due to limited shade.
🗣️ Test the Acoustics
Stand on stage and experience the theater's amazing natural sound.
🚶♂️ Explore Beyond the South
Don't miss this smaller but fascinating theater, often less crowded.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking to the theater and climbing ancient stone seats.
☀️ Sun Protection is a Must
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water due to limited shade.
🗣️ Test the Acoustics
Stand on stage and experience the theater's amazing natural sound.
🚶♂️ Explore Beyond the South
Don't miss this smaller but fascinating theater, often less crowded.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the North Theater as an engineering marvel and a highlight of the Jerash archaeological site. Its impressive capacity, incredible acoustics, and panoramic views are frequently mentioned as unforgettable experiences. While it requires walking and sun protection, the effort is widely considered worthwhile.
"The North Theater shouldn't be missed if you're visiting Jordan and especially Jerash. The theater could seat thousands of people, and, even though it's partially collapsed now, we enjoyed sitting at the top and marveling at the size and imagining what it must have been like to watch performances in its day.
The theater is located a little way from the visitor center, so be prepared to do some walking to reach it. Comfortable shoes are recommended, but it’s worth the effort it for the panoramic views of the ancient city once you arrive. Also, since there’s not much shade, make sure to wear sunscreen and possibly bring a hat and liquid to stay hydrated.
We thought it was very cool to have one of our group on stage – speaking in a reasonable voice and see how well we could hear while seated in various parts of the theater. Its incredible acoustics means you can clearly hear voices, all without electronic amplification!
We enjoyed our visit to Jerash and the North Theater remains an engineering marvel and the must-see highlight of our trip. Climbing up the original stone seats is an unforgettable experience that makes the past feel present in Jordan."
Jonathan
"Visited around noon, in the off season. I marveled at its grand design and impressive capacity to accommodate 1,600 spectators. Standing within its ancient walls, I could almost sense the excitement and enthusiasm that once filled this historical venue during performances and events."
Manoj KA
"The smaller of the two theaters in the Ancient Ruins of Jerash.
The Backstage is more elaborate than the South Teather and there are some stairs that lead to the civic Center.
It's less crowded and not a lot of people make it all the way here. So you can look for the perfect spot where your voice echoes thru the theater and your leisure. It's a lot of fun to imagine the audience in the gallery while you sing or give a speech, for that reason alone it's a must.
Enjoy!"
Jose E. Coello
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Theater is located within the Jerash archaeological site. You'll need to purchase an entrance ticket to the site. It's a walk from the main visitor center, so comfortable shoes are a must.
While the site itself is vast, the North Theater requires some walking from the main entrance. Be prepared for uneven terrain and some climbing on the ancient stone seats.
Many visitors recommend starting at the South Theater and working your way north, or vice versa. Allow ample time to explore the entire archaeological park.
Yes, guided tours are often available at the Jerash archaeological site, which can provide historical context for the North Theater and other structures. Check with the visitor center upon arrival.
No, private vehicles are generally not permitted within the main archaeological site. You will need to park at designated areas and walk to the theater.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the North Theater is part of the Jerash archaeological site. A single entrance ticket to the site grants you access to all its attractions, including the North Theater.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the site is open from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official Jordan tourism website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date hours.
Ticket prices can change, but typically there's a fee for entry to the Jerash archaeological site. Consider purchasing a Jordan Pass if you plan to visit multiple historical sites in Jordan, as it often includes entry to Jerash.
While tickets are usually available for purchase at the site, buying a Jordan Pass online in advance is a convenient option for many travelers.
Visiting during the off-season or early in the morning, especially on weekdays, can help you avoid the largest crowds.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The North Theater is smaller and often less crowded than the South Theater. While the South Theater is more elaborate, the North Theater offers a unique experience with its impressive acoustics and panoramic views.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to sit on the original stone seats to experience the theater's grandeur and acoustics. Be mindful of the ancient structure.
The North Theater is renowned for its incredible natural acoustics, allowing voices to carry clearly throughout the seating area without any electronic amplification.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available within the Jerash archaeological site, though they might be located closer to the main entrances or visitor centers.
Historically, Roman theaters like the North Theater hosted a variety of performances, including plays, musical events, and public addresses.
📸 📸 Photography
The upper tiers offer fantastic panoramic shots of the theater and the surrounding Jerash ruins. The stage area also provides a unique perspective.
Visiting early in the morning or during the off-season significantly increases your chances of capturing photos with fewer people.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – often provide the best lighting for photography, casting a warm glow on the ancient stones.
Drone usage is typically restricted in archaeological sites to preserve the historical integrity and for safety reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the theater, while a standard zoom lens can be versatile. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or for capturing detailed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage them to test the acoustics by speaking from the stage – it's a fun and interactive way to learn about the theater's design. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as exploring the entire Jerash site can be tiring for little ones. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone.
🚶♂️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to save money on purchasing them within the site. Visiting during the off-season or weekdays can also mean fewer crowds, potentially leading to a more relaxed and personal experience without additional cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Roman Acoustics
This acoustic phenomenon allowed for clear communication during performances, whether it was an actor's dialogue, a musician's melody, or a public announcement. The ability to be heard by thousands of spectators without electronic aids is a fascinating aspect that continues to impress modern visitors. It’s a hands-on experience that truly brings the ingenuity of the ancient Romans to life.
When you visit, take a moment to stand on the stage and experiment. You'll likely be amazed at how well your voice carries. It’s a simple yet profound way to connect with the history and the people who once gathered in this magnificent space.
Navigating the Jerash Archaeological Site
Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable, as you'll be covering a lot of ground on uneven surfaces. The site can get quite hot, especially during midday, so carrying water, wearing sunscreen, and a hat are essential for a pleasant experience. While there are some shaded areas, much of the site is exposed to the sun.
Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the peak heat and potentially larger crowds. This also offers better lighting for photography. Taking your time to wander through the colonnaded streets, temples, and other structures will allow you to fully appreciate the scale and grandeur of this ancient Roman city.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit