Madaba

Overview

Madaba, known worldwide as The City of Mosaics, is one of Jordan’s most captivating cultural and religious destinations. Located just 30 minutes from Amman, the city is filled with ancient churches, archaeological parks, skilled artisans, and some of the finest Byzantine mosaics ever discovered.

For travelers seeking Biblical history, early Christian art, and vibrant local culture, Madaba is an essential stop on Jordan’s Heritage Route often combined with Mount Nebo, Dead Sea, and Bethany Beyond the Jordan.

History of Madaba

Madaba’s story spans thousands of years, shaped by civilizations and sacred traditions.

Ancient & Biblical Era

  • Madaba is mentioned in historical and Biblical sources as a Moabite and later an Israelite town.
  • Its location along ancient trade routes made it an important settlement for centuries.

Byzantine Flourishing (5th–7th Century AD)

Madaba reached its golden age during the Byzantine Christian era, becoming:

  • A center of religious scholarship
  • A hub for mosaic art
  • A city filled with churches decorated with stunning floor mosaics

Islamic & Medieval Periods

The city continued to thrive under the Umayyads and later Islamic rulers.
Although many earthquakes damaged the area, Madaba’s artistic heritage remained.

Modern Revival

In the late 19th century, Christian tribes from Karak resettled Madaba, rediscovering many ancient churches and mosaics beneath the ground.

This sparked the beginning of modern archaeological excavations that made Madaba famous.

Top Attractions in Madaba

1. St. George’s Church & The Mosaic Map

Madaba’s crown jewel the world-famous Mosaic Map of the Holy Land.

About the Map

  • Created in the 6th century AD
  • Made from over 2 million tiny colored stones
  • Depicts Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jordan River, Dead Sea, Sinai, Nile Delta, and parts of Palestine, Lebanon & Syria

It is the oldest surviving map of the biblical region and one of the most valuable Christian artworks in the Middle East.

2. Madaba Archaeological Park

A beautiful open-air museum showcasing:

  • Ancient Roman roads
  • The Hippolytus Hall mosaic (one of the finest in Jordan)
  • Early Byzantine houses
  • The Church of the Virgin Mary
  • Everyday artifacts from Madaba’s ancient inhabitants

This park offers a deep dive into Madaba’s art and architecture.

3. Church of the Apostles

Home to the remarkable mosaic of  Thalassa, the personification of the sea, surrounded by mythological creatures and natural motifs.
A masterpiece of Byzantine storytelling through art.

4. Madaba’s Mosque & Old Town

Madaba is a city of coexistence Muslims and Christians live together peacefully, with mosques and churches standing side by side.

Walking through the old streets, visitors discover:

  • Local cafés
  • Handicraft shops
  • Mosaic workshops
  • Traditional sweet shops
  • Friendly locals offering authentic hospitality

Cultural & Art Experiences

Madaba is one of the best places in Jordan to explore traditional handcrafts and local culture.

Mosaic Workshops

Visitors can watch artists create mosaic art using ancient techniques—and even make their own souvenir.

Local Food

Madaba is famous for:

  • Home-style cooking
  • Jordanian mezze
  • Mansaf, maqlouba, and galayet bandora
  • Fresh sajj bread and local pastries

Handmade Crafts

Including:

  • Mosaic art pieces
  • Olive wood carvings
  • Traditional embroidery
  • Handmade ceramics

Pilgrimage Experiences

Madaba is a key stop for Christian pilgrimages, often combined with:

  • Mount Nebo
  • Bethany Beyond the Jordan
  • Mukawir
  • Route of Moses

Nearby Attractions (Easy Combinations)


Mount Nebo – 10 minutes

Holy mountain with panoramic views.

Dead Sea – 25 minutes

Floating, spas, and mud experiences.

Bethany Beyond the Jordan – 30–35 minutes

The official baptism site of Jesus Christ.

Ma’in Hot Springs – 30 minutes

Natural hot waterfalls surrounded by canyon landscapes.

Distance & Accessibility

  • Amman → Madaba: 33 km (30 minutes)
  • Queen Alia Airport → Madaba: 20–25 minutes
  • Madaba → Mount Nebo: 10 minutes
  • Madaba → Dead Sea: 25–30 minutes

Madaba is an ideal base for touring central Jordan.

Why Visit Madaba with Jordan Address?

Jordan Address offers curated cultural and religious experiences that bring Madaba’s heritage to life.

  • Licensed professional guides
  • Entry coordination to all major sites
  • Mosaic workshop experiences
  • Combination tours with Nebo, Dead Sea & Bethany
  • Comfortable private transfers
  • Religious pilgrimage & cultural heritage itineraries
  • Lunch experiences in traditional Madaba homes

We ensure that your visit to Madaba is meaningful, smooth, and enriched with authentic cultural encounters.