Hippodrome

حلبة السباق

An impressive Roman chariot racing venue with a capacity of 15,000 spectators, featuring starting gates and viewing sections that hint at the grandeur of ancient sporting events. Its scale demonstrates the importance of athletic competitions in Roman society.

Things to do

• Explore the Starting Gates — Walk through the preserved carceres (starting gates) on the northern end to understand how chariots were lined up and released simultaneously for races.
• Climb the Spectator Tiers — Ascend the tiered seating sections to experience the vantage points ancient spectators enjoyed and gain perspective on the 15,000-capacity venue's scale.
• Walk the Spina — Traverse the central dividing wall (spina) that ran down the middle of the race track, which featured decorative monuments and lap counters.
• Visit the On-site Museum — Browse artifacts and informational displays that reconstruct chariot racing traditions, betting customs, and the role of famous drivers in Roman culture.
• Photograph the Surrounding Landscape — Capture views of the Ajloun hills and broader Jerash valley from the upper tiers, which showcase how the hippodrome was integrated into the Roman city's geography.

Food to try

• Mansaf — This traditional Jordanian lamb stew in yogurt sauce is a staple in the Jerash region and pairs well with flatbread for a hearty meal after exploring the ancient site.
• Falafel from Local Vendors — Crispy chickpea fritters sold near the Hippodrome entrance are a quick, affordable snack that reflects centuries of Levantine cooking tradition.
• Zarb or Bedouin-style Roasted Lamb — Slow-cooked lamb buried under hot coals is a specialty in the Ajloun area, offering an authentic desert dining experience popular with tour groups.
• Musakhan — Palestinian-influenced chicken dish with sumac and onions served on flatbread is widely available in Jerash cafés and represents local Palestinian heritage.
• Fresh Pomegranate Juice — Pressed from local Jordanian pomegranates, this refreshing drink is sold at roadside stands and complements the warm climate during site visits.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly and Bring Sun Protection — The exposed hippodrome offers little shade; wear lightweight, loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees to respect local customs and stay cool.
• Visit Early Morning for Best Experience — Arrive before 9 AM to avoid peak heat and crowds, allowing time to climb tiers and walk the track without rushing, as locals typically avoid midday outdoor activities.
• Hire a Local Guide for Context — English-speaking guides at the site entrance provide invaluable insights into Roman chariot racing rules, famous drivers, and how entertainment reflected social hierarchies in antiquity.
• Respect Excavation Boundaries — Sections may be cordoned off for ongoing archaeological work; stay within marked areas and do not remove or touch artifacts, as preservation is an ongoing community priority.