Jordan: Emmalyn Bergman (Learning on Excursions)

Program: SIT Refugees, Health, and Humanitarian Action in Jordan, Spring

Earlier in February, I had the opportunity to visit the Archeological Site of Jerash, an ancient Roman city located about an hour north of Amman. As a student earning a certificate in History, I was especially interested in this excursion and thoroughly enjoyed exploring the sprawling city ruins as well as reading each and every informational sign (much to the dismay of a few of my group members!)

A particularly memorable section of the tour of Jerash was the stop at the South Theatre. The theatre is incredibly well-preserved and we were able to walk on the stage and even sit in the stands. While we were there, a group of local musicians performed, playing songs on the bagpipes and leading the tour groups in dances across the stage. While watching the performances from the audience, I was surprised to notice that each seat in the theatre was complete with a Roman-numeral carved into the stone. It was a small detail, but I had never considered the logistics of Ancient Roman theatres before, and was shocked to realize that they were seat numbers. When I asked the tour guide, he explained that not only were there seat numbers, but there were also corresponding entry tickets, usually made from either pottery or bone.

Me on the stage of Jerash’s South Theatre!

Beyond my newfound knowledge of Ancient Roman theaters, the opportunity to explore Jerash also provided me with a firsthand understanding of Jordan’s ancient and diverse history. While Jerash primarily features Roman ruins, there is also Byzantine and early Islamic architecture, as well as Pagan temples and Christian churches, highlighting the region’s evolution and notable religious diversity. Witnessing the city in person deepened my appreciation of Jordan’s history and furthered my understanding of the country as a historic crossroads between civilizations.