In every ancient Roman city, the forum was the place that was at the center of the community, the place where political decisions were made, public meetings were held and often where markets took place. Visit the Forum in Jerash, which was known as Gerasa under the Roman Empire, to see a well-preserved example that is architecturally unlike most ancient Roman forums elsewhere.
The Roman Empire conquered the region in the 1st century and turned Gerasa into something of an economic hub. It flourished under Roman rule for several centuries, and the many ruins scattered across the Jerash Archaeological Site are relics of that time. Marvel at how complete many of them are as you explore. The Forum is one of the least affected by the passing centuries.
Walk down the path that approaches the Forum and you might feel like you have travelled back to the 1st century, when much of the city, including the Forum, was built. The path remains in good condition, with many of the elegant columns along each side still standing.
Step into the vast space of the Forum itself and you will quickly get a sense of how important this place was. Standing at a massive 295 feet long and 262 feet wide (90 meters long and 80 meters wide), this expansive public space was designed to fit in as much of the city’s population as possible. Admire the columns that frame the edges of the space. Note, too, the unusual oval shape of the Forum, which is extremely rare in ancient Roman structures of this type.
Get a clear view of the Forum from above at the top of the nearby Temple of Zeus. This is just one of the other incredible Roman ruins on the site. Others include the Hippodrome sports field, the Temple of Artemis and Hadrian’s Arch.
Pay to enter the Jerash Archaeological Site and access to the Forum as well as to all the other ruins on site will be included in the cost. Stop by the Jerash Archaeological Museum to gain a deeper understanding of this historic place.
