Madaba is a city best known for its magnificent Roman mosaics. It is also a good base for trips to the Dead Sea and Mount Nebo, from which, according to tradition, Moses was to see the Promised Land.
Madaba itself has a history dating back to the 2nd century BC, but its buildings are mostly contemporary. Among the new buildings, however, you can find real gems. They are mainly churches, the oldest of which date back to the 5th-6th centuries. The city is also largely inhabited by Christians. Madaba's biggest attraction is the local mosaics, which have survived in excellent condition since early Christianity. They were not affected by the destruction of iconoclasm because they were then covered and regained their splendor only in the 20th century.
While visiting Madaba, do not miss the Orthodox Church of St. George, with the most famous mosaic, the Madaba Map. It was made in the 6th century and shows a map of the Mediterranean basin. Although only a fragment covering the area from Lebanon to Egypt has been preserved, its detail and reproduction are very impressive. At the beginning of the 20th century, mosaics were also discovered in the Church of the Apostles and are now displayed in a special hall next to the temple. Other remains of Roman and Byzantine buildings, as well as transferred mosaics, can be seen in the Madaba Archaeological Park and in the local museum.
Madaba is the base for those going to Mount Nebo. It is a holy place for Christians, Jews and Muslims. At the top is the Temple of the Prophet Moses, dating back to the 4th century, and an archaeological park. From the top you also have a great view of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea and Galilee. Another place worth visiting while exploring the Madaba area is the Machaerous fortress built by Herod the Great, where, according to tradition, John the Baptist was beheaded.
