Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday - Jordan News
Do you want a different vacation, a journey that goes beyond shopping and relaxation, and takes you to the depths of history, during which you can live moments of true magic? UNESCO recently unveiled the addition of a new collection of unique cultural sites to its World Heritage List, priceless places that store stories of glory, legends, and civilizations that continue to fascinate the world.
From the banks of the Seine River in France to the mysterious forests of Jamaica, from the industrial landmarks of Germany to the legendary temples of Cambodia, here are five magical sites that are worth your next trip, because they are unforgettable human experiences, beyond being ordinary tourist destinations.
The palaces of King Ludwig II in Bavaria. Germany: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
If you think German architecture is dry and rigid, the palaces of King Ludwig II will completely change your outlook. The most famous of these is the Neuschwanstein Palace, which resembles fairy tale palaces. Built in the 19th century, the palace reflects the king's lavish taste and love of mythology and opera. The three palaces built by the king: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Hernkemsee, are now World Heritage sites. These palaces are a mixture of history, art, and royal drama, all set amidst stunning Bavarian landscapes, adding to the charm of the experience, and these magnificent buildings attract millions of people, so if you are an architecture lover interested in history and romantics, you are sure to spend a wonderful holiday in Bavaria in these three fictional palaces.
The sites of the Minoan civilization in Crete. Greece: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Who would have imagined that the myth of the labyrinth and the monster "Minotaur" had real roots? At the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, traces of the oldest advanced civilization in Europe (Minoan or Minoan) can be seen. Five other archaeological sites, such as Zagros and Malia, received global recognition from UNESCO this year. The maze is worth a visit because it tells the story of a thriving civilization thousands of years ago, master's in architecture and art, and had commercial contact with the cultures of the Mediterranean basin. Minoan art and culture are characterized by a clear love of nature, movement, and bright colors, which is clearly evident in the murals, pottery, and sculptures they are left behind. If you are a fan of murals that tell scenes from everyday life, religious rituals, and landscapes, and you are a fan of a sophisticated artistic sense, you will have an enjoyable journey with the heritage of the Minoan civilization.
The huge stones of Karnak. France: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Carnac stones in Brittany are among the largest stone formations in Europe. More than 3,000 carved rocks, meticulously placed in place some 5,000 years ago.
So why is it worth a visit? It offers a glimpse into a mysterious and well-organized civilization, showing how ancient humans understood nature, stars and terrestrial energy, amidst stunning French rural landscapes.
Execution fields. Cambodia: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Not every human heritage is beautiful, some document painful chapters of human history. UNESCO has listed sites linked to the Khmer Rouge genocide, such as Tul Sleng Prison and the Choyeong-eek execution site, as a World Heritage Site as a testament to crimes committed against the Cambodian people during the seventies.
Why is this visit worth it? Because remembering tragedies is a human and moral imperative. Visiting these sites reminds us of the importance of peace and the need to preserve human dignity.
«Port Royal» Jamaica. A city swallowed by the sea: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Port Royal was one of the most corrupt and decaying cities in the world during the 17th century, until an earthquake in 1692 submerged large parts of it under water. Today, what remains of the city, above and below sea level, is part of the UNESCO list.
Why is it worth visiting? It gives you a vivid glimpse into early colonial life, piracy, and maritime trade in the Caribbean, all set in a breathtaking tropical setting. Zahrat Al Khaleej - Jordan
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Jordan News
4 days ago
- Jordan News
Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday - Jordan News
اضافة اعلان Do you want a different vacation, a journey that goes beyond shopping and relaxation, and takes you to the depths of history, during which you can live moments of true magic? UNESCO recently unveiled the addition of a new collection of unique cultural sites to its World Heritage List, priceless places that store stories of glory, legends, and civilizations that continue to fascinate the world. From the banks of the Seine River in France to the mysterious forests of Jamaica, from the industrial landmarks of Germany to the legendary temples of Cambodia, here are five magical sites that are worth your next trip, because they are unforgettable human experiences, beyond being ordinary tourist destinations. The palaces of King Ludwig II in Bavaria. Germany: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday If you think German architecture is dry and rigid, the palaces of King Ludwig II will completely change your outlook. The most famous of these is the Neuschwanstein Palace, which resembles fairy tale palaces. Built in the 19th century, the palace reflects the king's lavish taste and love of mythology and opera. The three palaces built by the king: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Hernkemsee, are now World Heritage sites. These palaces are a mixture of history, art, and royal drama, all set amidst stunning Bavarian landscapes, adding to the charm of the experience, and these magnificent buildings attract millions of people, so if you are an architecture lover interested in history and romantics, you are sure to spend a wonderful holiday in Bavaria in these three fictional palaces. The sites of the Minoan civilization in Crete. Greece: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Who would have imagined that the myth of the labyrinth and the monster "Minotaur" had real roots? At the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, traces of the oldest advanced civilization in Europe (Minoan or Minoan) can be seen. Five other archaeological sites, such as Zagros and Malia, received global recognition from UNESCO this year. The maze is worth a visit because it tells the story of a thriving civilization thousands of years ago, master's in architecture and art, and had commercial contact with the cultures of the Mediterranean basin. Minoan art and culture are characterized by a clear love of nature, movement, and bright colors, which is clearly evident in the murals, pottery, and sculptures they are left behind. If you are a fan of murals that tell scenes from everyday life, religious rituals, and landscapes, and you are a fan of a sophisticated artistic sense, you will have an enjoyable journey with the heritage of the Minoan civilization. The huge stones of Karnak. France: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Carnac stones in Brittany are among the largest stone formations in Europe. More than 3,000 carved rocks, meticulously placed in place some 5,000 years ago. So why is it worth a visit? It offers a glimpse into a mysterious and well-organized civilization, showing how ancient humans understood nature, stars and terrestrial energy, amidst stunning French rural landscapes. Execution fields. Cambodia: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Not every human heritage is beautiful, some document painful chapters of human history. UNESCO has listed sites linked to the Khmer Rouge genocide, such as Tul Sleng Prison and the Choyeong-eek execution site, as a World Heritage Site as a testament to crimes committed against the Cambodian people during the seventies. Why is this visit worth it? Because remembering tragedies is a human and moral imperative. Visiting these sites reminds us of the importance of peace and the need to preserve human dignity. «Port Royal» Jamaica. A city swallowed by the sea: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Port Royal was one of the most corrupt and decaying cities in the world during the 17th century, until an earthquake in 1692 submerged large parts of it under water. Today, what remains of the city, above and below sea level, is part of the UNESCO list. Why is it worth visiting? It gives you a vivid glimpse into early colonial life, piracy, and maritime trade in the Caribbean, all set in a breathtaking tropical setting. Zahrat Al Khaleej - Jordan
Al Bawaba
29-06-2025
- Al Bawaba
Historic Italian City of Assisi to Host International Exhibition 'Jordan: Dawn of Christianity'
The international traveling exhibition 'Jordan: Dawn of Christianity' will open on July 4 at Palazzo Monte Frumentario in Assisi, marking its second major venue following a successful debut at the Vatican earlier this in collaboration with the Municipality of Assisi, the exhibition will take place in the 13th-century Palazzo Monte Frumentario, a former granary now restored as a prominent cultural center. The venue, located in the birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi, was chosen for its deep historical and spiritual over 5 million visitors annually, Assisi is renowned for its religious significance and UNESCO World Heritage status. Hosting the exhibition reflects the growing cultural and diplomatic ties between Jordan and Italy, highlighted by King Abdullah II's 2019 receipt of the Lamp of Peace award in Assisi for his efforts in advancing interfaith exhibition's opening aligns with preparations for Jubilee Year 2025, proclaimed by Pope Francis under the theme 'Pilgrims of Hope', a sacred year celebrated once every 25 years in Catholic tradition.'Jordan: Dawn of Christianity' highlights five significant Christian pilgrimage sites within Jordan's borders. The exhibition features Bethany Beyond the Jordan, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and identified by the Vatican as the location of Jesus Christ's baptism. Additional sites include Mount Nebo, the Church of Our Lady of the Mountain in Anjara, Tell Mar Elias, and Machaerus, where historical accounts place John the Baptist's imprisonment and exhibition aims to promote Jordan as a leading destination for religious tourism, building on the momentum of Pope Francis's 2014 visit to the Baptism Site and reinforcing Jordan's position within the broader Holy exhibition reflects Jordan's dedication to sharing its Christian legacy with the world. By presenting these sacred sites to international audiences, it invites visitors to experience the spiritual richness and historical depth that Jordan uniquely offers. The exhibition serves as a cultural and spiritual bridge, fostering mutual understanding and echoing the spirit of peace and dialogue long embodied by Saint project is a collaborative initiative between Jordanian cultural institutions and global partners, supporting broader efforts to enhance religious tourism and cultural diplomacy across the region. Following its Assisi debut, the exhibition is scheduled to tour additional international locations. Visitor details and the full exhibition itinerary are available at © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba ( Signal PressWire is the world's largest independent Middle East PR distribution service.
Jordan News
09-06-2025
- Jordan News
Jordanian Tourism Under King Abdullah II: Comprehensive Renaissance and Sustainable Growth - Jordan News
Jordanian Tourism Under King Abdullah II: Comprehensive Renaissance and Sustainable Growth Under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, Jordan's tourism sector has witnessed a qualitative transformation and comprehensive development, becoming one of the main pillars of the national economy. The Kingdom adopted an ambitious development strategy focused on diversifying tourism products, improving infrastructure, and enhancing investment in its unique archaeological and natural sites. اضافة اعلان Thanks to the direct attention of His Majesty, tourism has become an effective tool for promoting Jordan's positive global image and attracting tourists from all over the world. This has contributed to job creation, revitalized local communities, and preserved Jordan's cultural and historical heritage. The progress achieved in this sector in recent years clearly reflects the King's enlightened vision that views tourism not just as an economy, but as a bridge for cultural exchange and sustainable development. Since assuming his constitutional powers, His Majesty has worked to transform Jordan into a model for comprehensive and sustainable development in the region, with sustainable tourism being a cornerstone of this vision. Recognizing its economic importance and role in reducing unemployment and raising social welfare, the King has consistently directed successive governments to provide all necessary facilities to advance the tourism industry and make it innovative, attractive, and reflective of Jordan's rich historical, environmental, and cultural assets. In line with these royal directives, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has aligned its recent plans with the Economic Modernization Vision (2023–2033), prioritizing tourism under the "Jordan as a Global Destination" track. The Ministry is working to achieve this vision by creating 99,000 jobs in the tourism sector, stimulating investment, and increasing tourism revenues. Regarding the targets of the Economic Modernization Vision, tourism revenues have already achieved 100.6% of the set targets, while employment in the sector has reached 105.4% of the expected figures. The Ministry developed a national sectoral strategic plan (2021–2025) in collaboration with local stakeholders and updated it to align with the modernization vision. The tourism sector has seen remarkable growth under King Abdullah II's reign, surpassing annual targets. During the first five months of 2025 alone, the number of international visitors reached approximately 2.7 million, while tourism revenue in the first third of the year hit 1.721 billion Jordanian dinars, contributing 13.5% to the GDP. Tourism sector employment exceeds 57,000 full-time workers, including a notable increase in female employees, who now number 7,728. The total number of tourism establishments has surpassed 3,706, including 924 hotels, 1,316 restaurants, 883 tour operators, and 583 other facilities. Hotel rooms have also increased, especially in Aqaba, Petra, and Wadi Rum, with a nationwide total of over 36,000 rooms. Jordan's global recognition has grown, with five Jordanian sites added to the UNESCO World Heritage list under King Abdullah II: Umm ar-Rasas (2004), Wadi Rum (2011), the Baptism Site (2015), Salt (2021), and Umm al-Jimal (2024). An additional 13 sites are on the tentative list. Jordan has also registered five elements on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, including Bedouin culture in Petra and Wadi Rum (2008), the Samer dance (2018), Mansaf (2022), Arabic calligraphy (2021), and the Date Palm file (2022). In 2023, Umm Qais and Al-Sela village were selected among the world's best tourism villages by UNWTO, and Petra was named one of the New Seven Wonders in 2007. The Baptism Site was recognized as a global Christian pilgrimage site, and five Christian pilgrimage locations were designated by the Vatican. Jordan was declared a regional hub for medical and wellness tourism in 2023. Madaba was named the Arab Tourism Capital in 2022, and Irbid the Arab Capital of Culture. Jordan also chaired the UNWTO's Regional Commission for the Middle East for two years. On the international front, Jordan signed 26 cooperation agreements, 13 MoUs, and 28 executive programs with various countries, and hosted the 49th session of the UNWTO Regional Commission for the Middle East on June 7, 2023. Jordan also led the "Tourism Eyes 2022" project with UNWTO to empower women, participated in the UNWTO Youth Summit in Italy, chaired the Arab Tourism Ministerial Council, and led the Middle East Regional Commission (2023–2025). Jordan also chaired the Arab League's Technical Committee for Tourism and joined UNWTO's Affiliate Membership Committee. In a step to support investment, the Kingdom published its tourism investment guide in cooperation with UNWTO in 2024. In digital transformation, the Ministry launched a tourism indicators dashboard, electronic tickets for heritage sites, the Jordan Pass platform, Urdunna Jannah platform, electronic licensing, and an integrated tourism statistics system. To develop the tourism product, 11 visitor centers were established across the Kingdom, including a center for exploration and adventure tourism in Shobak. Sites were also adapted for accessible tourism and many heritage sites were rehabilitated, such as Umm ar-Rasas, Umm al-Jimal, and Machaerus. The "Urdunna Jannah" domestic tourism program attracted 311,000 participants in 2024. From its relaunch on April 24, 2025, until May 20, about 35,000 more joined. Handicraft training centers were launched in several provinces, and Christian religious tourism was promoted locally and internationally. The Pope visited Jordan three times, recognizing five pilgrimage sites. Legislatively, the Tourism Law (1988) was amended three times, producing 15 bylaws and multiple directives. Laws on heritage and antiquities were also updated, generating several supporting legal instruments. The Department of Antiquities continued documenting and preserving Jordan's archaeological heritage, registering numerous sites with UNESCO and Islamic heritage lists, including Umm ar-Rasas, Wadi Rum, the Baptism Site, Salt, Ajloun Castle, Qasr Amra, and the Kharak School. Jordan contributed to drafting international heritage charters such as the 2017 Thessaloniki Charter for Byzantine Heritage. Databases like MEGA Jordan were created, mapping 15,000 archaeological sites. The department also launched a system to document museum artifacts and established a digital library. Museum infrastructure saw major improvements with new museums in Ajloun, the Dead Sea, Hallabat, Feynan, Umm al-Jimal, Tafilah, and the Jordan Museum. Conservation work covered 21 archaeological sites and restoration of 16 rare books. In 2023, the Regional Conservation Center (Nuweijis) was founded. Key archaeological discoveries included the world's oldest blood samples in Azraq, the oldest known loaf of bread (2018), ancient statues, and Roman baths. The Jordan Tourism Board implemented initiatives to enhance Jordan's global image, notably the "Kingdom of Time" tourism brand, promoting adventure and health tourism, and helping Jordan host global conferences. The Jordan Trail was also recognized as a premier adventure destination. The Board partnered with five low-cost carriers to expand air connectivity to 25 destinations across 17 countries and secured charter flights from nine countries. Direct flights now connect Jordan to 37 countries, 69 cities, and 78 airports. Digitally, the Board launched specialized websites to promote Jordan's diverse tourism offerings.
