Pella

Description

In the midst of the Jordan Valley in northwestern Jordan and 27.4KM south of the Sea of Galilee, are the ruins of the ancient city of Pella, one of the cities of the fabled Roman Decapolis. It represents one of ten Decapolis cities that were founded during the Hellenistic period and became powerful under Roman jurisdiction.

Pella is of great importance to archaeologists because it reveals evidence of 6000 years of continuous settlement. In fact, it’s regarded as the most historically significant site in all Jordan. Centered on a large tell and surrounded by fertile valleys that together comprise a rich watershed, Pella has fostered human civilization from the Stone Age to medieval Islamic times. The ruins lie a few kilometers away from the modern Arab village of Tabaqat Fahl.

Many of the ruins are spread out and in need of excavation, so some walking and a bit of imagination are required to get the most from the site. The superb setting just above the Jordan Valley can be reward enough, particularly when the land blooms in spring.