South Theatre

المسرح الجنوبي

The largest theatre in Jerash with a capacity of around 3,000 spectators, featuring well-preserved seating and stage structures from the 1st century CE. This grand venue exemplifies the cultural importance of entertainment in Roman Jerash.

Things to do

• Explore the Theatre's Seating Tiers — Walk through the cavea (seating area) to understand the layout where 3,000 spectators once gathered, with views of the stage and surrounding Roman city.
• Examine the Stage Structure — Study the well-preserved scaenae frons (stage backdrop) and orchestra area to see where Roman actors and musicians performed tragic and comic plays.
• Visit the Adjacent North Theatre — Walk the short distance to compare the smaller North Theatre, which seated about 1,600 people and demonstrates different architectural approaches.
• Photograph from the Upper Tiers — Climb to the highest preserved seating sections for panoramic views of Jerash's Roman ruins and the surrounding Ajloun landscape.
• Attend Evening Sound and Light Show — Experience theatrical performances and illuminated presentations during summer months that bring the theatre's Roman history to life.
• Study Acoustic Engineering — Observe how the theatre's curved design and materials were engineered to project sound from the stage to all 3,000 seats without modern amplification.

Food to try

• Mansaf — A traditional Jordanian dish of lamb cooked in yogurt sauce served with rice or flatbread, widely available in Jerash restaurants near the archaeological site.
• Falafel and Hummus — Crispy chickpea fritters and creamy chickpea paste served with pita bread, a staple street food throughout Jerash's market areas.
• Musakhan — Palestinian-style chicken cooked with sumac and onions on flatbread, a specialty in local restaurants reflecting the region's culinary heritage.
• Freshly Pressed Pomegranate Juice — A refreshing local beverage made from pomegranates grown in the nearby Ajloun region, available at juice stands near the theatre entrance.
• Zarb (Bedouin BBQ) — Meat and vegetables slow-cooked in an underground pit, offered at traditional restaurants in Jerash as a special occasion dish reflecting ancient cooking methods.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly — Wear covered shoulders and knees as a sign of respect when visiting the theatre, particularly during prayer times when nearby residents may be observing religious practices.
• Visit Early Morning or Late Afternoon — Arrive before 11 AM or after 3 PM to avoid midday heat and crowds, allowing time to appreciate the theatre's architecture and acoustic qualities without distraction.
• Hire a Local Guide — A knowledgeable Jerash guide can explain the theatre's Roman context, performance traditions, and engineering feats in ways that enhance your understanding of ancient entertainment.
• Respect Photography Restrictions — Ask permission before photographing local visitors or guides, and check if special exhibitions or events require separate tickets or have restricted photography zones.