Jerash Governorate facts for kids
The Jerash Governorate (which is محافظة جرش in Arabic) is one of the 12 special areas called governorates in the country of Jordan. You can think of a governorate like a large county or a state. The main city and capital of this governorate is Jerash, which is famous for its amazing ancient Roman ruins.
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About Jerash Governorate
The Jerash Governorate is located in the northern part of Jordan. It's known for its beautiful green hills and valleys, especially during springtime. This area is home to many important historical sites, with the ancient city of Jerash being the most famous. People from all over the world come to visit these old ruins.
Where is it Located?
Jerash Governorate is situated about 48 kilometers (about 30 miles) north of Amman, the capital city of Jordan. It's part of the northern region of the country, bordering other governorates like Irbid Governorate to the north and Balqa Governorate to the south. Its location makes it a gateway to the northern parts of Jordan.
A Look at History
The land where Jerash Governorate now stands has a very long and rich history. People have lived here for thousands of years. The most famous part of its history comes from the Roman Empire. The ancient city of Jerash, also known as Gerasa, was once a very important Roman city. It was part of a group of ten cities called the Decapolis. These cities were centers of trade and culture. You can still see many buildings from that time, like temples, theaters, and streets with tall columns.
What Can You See There?
The main attraction in Jerash Governorate is definitely the ancient city of Jerash. When you visit, you can walk through the Hadrian's Arch, which was built to honor Emperor Hadrian. You can also explore the Oval Forum, a unique oval-shaped public square. There are two large theaters, the North Theater and the South Theater, where plays and performances were held long ago. You can also see the remains of temples dedicated to Roman gods, like the Temple of Artemis and the Temple of Zeus. It's like stepping back in time!
Nature and Rivers
Beyond the ancient ruins, Jerash Governorate also has beautiful natural landscapes. The Zarqa River, one of Jordan's most important rivers, flows through the governorate. This river helps to make the land fertile and green. The King Talal Dam is also located in this area. This dam helps to store water from the Zarqa River, which is very important for farming and providing water to nearby communities. The green hills and valleys offer lovely views and a chance to enjoy nature.
Images for kids
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The Zarqa River passing through the governorate
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The King Talal Dam
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A map showing the governorate
See also
In Spanish: Gobernación de Gerasa para niños
