Jordan Museum

المتحف الأردني

The national museum housed in a striking modern building showcasing Jordan's archaeological treasures from prehistoric times to the modern era, including artifacts from Petra and Dead Sea Scrolls. It provides comprehensive context for understanding the country's extraordinary historical significance.

Things to do

• Explore the Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition — View rare fragments of ancient biblical manuscripts discovered near the Dead Sea, displayed in a climate-controlled gallery that preserves these 2,000-year-old texts.
• Tour the Petra Room — Study intricate stone vessels, pottery, and architectural fragments from the Nabataean city of Petra to understand the craftsmanship of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visit the Prehistoric Gallery — Examine tools, weapons, and skeletal remains spanning from the Paleolithic to Neolithic periods, illustrating human settlement in the Levant region.
• Examine the Roman and Byzantine Artifacts — Discover mosaics, coins, glass vessels, and religious objects from when Jordan was part of the Roman and Byzantine empires.
• Study Jordanian Ethnographic Collections — Browse traditional clothing, jewelry, weapons, and household items that showcase Bedouin and Arab cultural heritage from recent centuries.
• Attend a Museum Lecture or Workshop — Check for scheduled talks by archaeologists and historians who provide deeper context on Jordan's historical periods and ongoing excavations.

Food to try

• Mansaf — A traditional Jordanian dish of lamb cooked in a yogurt-based sauce served with rice or bread, commonly enjoyed by locals near cultural venues.
• Falafel and Hummus Platter — Crispy chickpea fritters and creamy chickpea paste, staple Levantine foods readily available at cafés near the museum.
• Zarb — Slow-cooked meat and vegetables buried underground, a Bedouin specialty that reflects Jordan's desert heritage and can be found at nearby restaurants.
• Kunafa — A sweet pastry dessert made with shredded phyllo, cheese, and syrup, perfect for a post-museum treat at local bakeries.
• Fresh Mint Tea — Strong black tea infused with fresh mint leaves, the customary beverage served throughout Jordan for hospitality and refreshment.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly — Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees, particularly when viewing religious artifacts and Dead Sea Scrolls exhibits.
• Allow Ample Time for Reading — Plan at least 2–3 hours to properly read artifact descriptions and historical context panels, as the museum prioritizes detailed interpretation over quick tours.
• Greet Staff Respectfully — A simple 'As-salamu alaikum' (peace be upon you) is appreciated when entering exhibits, reflecting local courtesy customs.
• Photography Restrictions — Some sections, particularly the Dead Sea Scrolls gallery, prohibit photography to protect fragile artifacts, so check signage before taking pictures.