Um er-Rasas (Kastrom Mefa'a) is a significant archaeological site located in Jumayyil, Jordan.

Overview

Um er-Rasas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the remains of an ancient Roman military camp and a town from the 5th century. The site provides valuable insights into the artistic, technical, and religious practices of the region during the Roman, Byzantine, and Early Muslim periods.

History

The archaeological site began as a Roman military camp in the 1st century AD, which later grew to become a thriving town by the 5th century. Unfortunately, most of the site remains unexcavated, with only remnants from the Roman, Byzantine, and Early Muslim periods remaining. The site's unique association with monasticism and the spread of monotheism in the region is also noteworthy.

Architecture

The site features a fortified Roman military camp, as well as 16 churches, some with well-preserved mosaic floors. Notably, the Church of Saint Stephen boasts an impressive mosaic floor representing towns in the region. The presence of two square towers, likely remnants of stylite towers, adds to the site's architectural significance.

Location

Um er-Rasas is situated in Jumayyil, Jordan, with coordinates 31.4833333333, 35.9166666667.

Religious Significance

The site is strongly associated with monasticism and the spread of monotheism in the region, including Islam. According to UNESCO, the stylite towers are a unique example of this practice, which was prevalent in the area during the Byzantine period.

Notable Artworks and Features

The Church of Saint Stephen features an exceptional mosaic floor depicting towns in the region, while the site also boasts 16 churches with preserved mosaic floors. The presence of two square towers, likely stylite towers, adds to the site's architectural significance.

Heritage Status

Listed on the National Register as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, Um er-Rasas meets the criteria for (i), (iv), and (vi) due to its outstanding example of artistic and technical qualities in the mosaic floor of St Stephen's church, unique stylite towers, and strong association with monasticism and the spread of monotheism.

Visiting Information

Unfortunately, no specific details about visiting information are available.