Rediscovering Jordan: Our Journey Through Madaba and Um Al Rasas

As part of our ongoing journey to rediscover Jordan through the eyes of travelers, the Ashtar Tours team recently set out to reconnect with two extraordinary destinations — Madaba and Um Al Rasas. Both places hold a special place in Jordan’s story, blending history, culture, and authentic local life in ways that continue to inspire us every time we visit.

What began as a simple field day quickly became an experience of learning, laughter, and rediscovery, reminding us why we are so passionate about sharing Jordan’s heritage with the world.

The Artistic Heart of Madaba

Our morning began in Madaba, known as The City of Mosaics. This charming town is home to one of the richest artistic heritages in the region. Wandering through its streets, we were greeted by the warmth of its people and the gentle hum of daily life — shopkeepers exchanging greetings, the smell of freshly baked bread drifting through the air, and the sparkle of mosaic tiles catching the morning light.

Inside the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, we once again stood in awe before the famous Madaba Map — a 6th-century mosaic masterpiece that continues to captivate travelers with its precision and storytelling.

To truly immerse ourselves in Madaba’s artistry, we visited a local mosaic workshop, where artisans keep this centuries-old craft alive. Watching them arrange tiny stones into elaborate designs was mesmerizing. Guided by their patient hands, we even created our own small mosaics — a creative moment that made us feel deeply connected to the spirit of Madaba and its people, the true keepers of Jordan’s artistic legacy.

Strolling Through Madaba’s Local Markets

We continued our exploration through Madaba’s vibrant markets, rediscovering the city’s authentic charm through its crafts, scents, and smiles. Every corner seemed to tell a story — handmade embroidery, olive-wood carvings, natural soaps, and colorful ceramics, each crafted with pride and tradition.

We ended our morning with a traditional Jordanian lunch in one of Madaba’s cozy local restaurants. Surrounded by good company and local flavors, we reflected on how travel connects people, stories, and generations — just as the mosaic tiles of Madaba connect to form a greater picture.

The Hidden History of Um Al Rasas

Our afternoon took us further south to Um Al Rasas, a place where history reveals itself piece by piece. At first glance, the site appears serene and quiet, yet within its ruins lie layers of Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic heritage — a living timeline etched into stone.

As we wandered through ancient churches, Roman camps, and arched passageways, we were once again amazed by the stories preserved in this landscape. The highlight was standing before the mosaic floor of the Church of Saint Stephen — a breathtaking work of art depicting cities and nature scenes across the region. It’s one of the largest and most detailed mosaics in Jordan, a true testament to the craftsmanship of the Byzantine era.

Our local guide brought these ruins to life with stories of soldiers, pilgrims, and communities that once called Um Al Rasas home. With each step, we could feel the echoes of time — a humbling reminder of Jordan’s deep and layered history.

By the end of the day, we returned home tired but inspired, our hearts full of gratitude for the places and people that continue to define Jordan’s identity. This wasn’t just a team outing — it was a journey of rediscovery, of seeing familiar places with renewed appreciation.

From the colorful streets of Madaba to the silent ruins of Um Al Rasas, we were reminded that Jordan’s beauty isn’t just in its landscapes — it’s in its stories, its people, and the timeless spirit that connects them all.