Ancient Islamic City of Ayla, Archaeological site in Aqaba, Jordan.
The rectangular ruins of Ayla contain stone walls extending 170 meters by 145 meters, with 24 protective towers along its perimeter walls.
Founded around 650 AD under Caliph Othman Ben Afen, Ayla functioned as a vital port city through the Umayyad, Abbasid, and Fatimid periods until 1116.
The central mosque of Ayla featured a broad courtyard with columns on three sides and served as both a religious center and educational institution.
Located near King Hussein Street and the sea, the archaeological site remains open during daylight hours with informative panels explaining the visible structures.
Recent underwater surveys near the site search for potential architectural extensions and remnants of the ancient port mentioned in historical documents.
Location: Aqaba
Address: K. Hussein St. 26, Aqaba, Jordan Aqaba
Opening Hours: Monday 08:00-20:00; Tuesday 13:00-20:00; Wednesday-Sunday 08:00-20:00
GPS coordinates: 29.53132,35.00029
Latest update: March 2, 2025 19:58
Jordan's historical sites and natural reserves include ancient temples, medieval castles, deserts, mountains, and biblical locations. The diverse landscapes stretch from the depths of the Dead Sea to the peaks of Dana's mountains, passing through the red sandstone cliffs of Petra and the coral waters of Aqaba. This territory preserves the traces of Nabataean, Roman, Byzantine, Umayyad, and Ottoman civilizations.
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