Kastron Mefaa

Jordan


The Umm Ar Rasas site spans the expansive ruins of Kastron Mefaa (mentioned in the Bible as the Roman military outpost of Mephaath). The ruins encompass four churches (including the Church of Lions, with impressive namesake mosaics) and the city walls. Arches rise up randomly from the rubble like sea monsters and you can spot cisterns and door lintels everywhere, although a lack of signposts makes it hard to grasp the structure of the ancient town.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

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1. Church of St Stephen

0.15 MILES

The ruined Church of St Stephen, protected by a large hangar, is one of four churches in the original village of Umm Ar Rasas. Inside, the magnificent…

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This insignificant-looking church contains a remarkable mosaic dedicated to the Twelve Apostles. The embroidery-like mosaic was created in AD 568 and is…

3. Madaba Museum

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This helpful interpretative centre makes a good starting point for visiting the highlights of Madaba. It's worth a visit in its own right, as it's housed…

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