Umayyad Palace

The Umayyad Palace is an Islamic palace complex in Amman with multiple sections connected by passageways and courtyards. The entrance hall features a reconstructed dome, and the layout includes various functional areas throughout the site.

The complex was built in the early 8th century under a caliph's rule and served as an important administrative center. A major earthquake in the mid-8th century caused extensive damage to the structures.

The architecture shows Persian influences through narrow columns and geometric patterns visible throughout the rooms. These design elements were typical of the artistic traditions of that era.

The site can be explored from different levels with viewpoints across the surrounding city. It helps to wear comfortable shoes since the paths lead through various rooms and across different elevations.

The main hall was built upon the foundations of an earlier Byzantine place of worship, resulting in an unusual cross-shaped floor plan. This layering of different cultures is also visible in other areas of the site.