Travel Plan
Oval Plaza

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · JERASH

Oval Plaza

A unique oval forum of the 1st century AD, ringed by 56 Ionic columns, at the heart of Roman Jerash.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
30 min
Entry
Paid (Jerash ticket or Jordan Pass)
Best time
Morning
Area
Jerash

A huge oval forum ringed by columns.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Jerash Archaeological Site, Jerash

  • From the entrance: About 10 minutes past the South Gate.
  • From Amman: About 1 hour.
  • Tours: Day tours combine Jerash and Ajloun.

The story of Oval Plaza Jerash

The Oval Plaza is unusual in Roman architecture: instead of a square forum, Jerash built an oval space to link the main street with the Temple of Zeus.

Its original paving and columns survive, and from the hill above you can see the whole Cardo stretching north.

Best time to visit

Best season

Spring and autumn.

Best time of day

Morning light.

Festival

Concerts are held here in July.

Tips before you go

  • Climb above for the best view.
  • Climb to the Temple of Zeus for the best view of the plaza.
  • Bring water; there is little shade.

Best hotels near Oval Plaza Jerash

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hotels in Amman

Most visitors stay in Amman, 1 hour away.

See prices

Hotels in Jerash

Small guesthouses near the ruins.

See prices

Hotels in Ajloun

Forest lodges nearby.

See prices
All hotels near Oval Plaza Jerash

What's around Oval Plaza Jerash

  • Temple of ZeusAbove the plaza.
  • Cardo MaximusStarts here.
  • South TheatreNext to the temple.

Questions travellers ask

Why is it oval?

To join the main street and the temple at an angle.

How many columns?

56.

Can I walk on it?

Yes.

More in Jerash

Hadrian's Arch

Hadrian's Arch

Read the guide
Cardo Maximus

Cardo Maximus

Read the guide
Back to the Jerash guide
Travel Plan · Oval Plaza Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us