Sacred Sites of Jordan

Jordan Map

Cave of the Seven Sleepers

The Cave of the Seven Sleepers, located near Amman, is a site revered by both Christians and Muslims. The legend tells of a group of young men who sought refuge in a cave to escape persecution and slept for centuries. The site, with its ancient ruins and spiritual significance, attracts pilgrims and those interested in religious history.

Jebel Haroun

Jebel Haroun, or Mount Aaron, is a mountain near Petra that is believed to be the burial place of Aaron, the brother of Moses. The summit of the mountain features a Byzantine-era church and a Muslim shrine, making it a site of religious importance for both Christians and Muslims. The challenging climb and the panoramic views add to the site's allure.

Jebel Musa

While Jebel Musa primarily refers to Mount Sinai in Egypt, it is worth noting that the region of Jordan holds significant biblical history. The broader area, including the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea region, is associated with the wanderings of Moses and the Israelites. The area surrounding Jebel Haroun for example, is associated with Moses brother Aaron, and is therefore a site of great religious importance.

Petra

Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient Nabataean city carved into sandstone cliffs. While primarily known for its archaeological significance, Petra also holds religious importance. It is associated with biblical stories and is believed to be the location where Moses struck a rock and water flowed. The site's stunning architecture and historical significance make it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.

Tomb of Jafar bin Abi Talib, Mutah

The Tomb of Jafar bin Abi Talib in Mutah is a significant Islamic pilgrimage site. Jafar bin Abi Talib was a cousin of Prophet Muhammad and a leader in the Battle of Mutah. The site honors his martyrdom and is a place of prayer and remembrance for Muslims.

Shrine of Aron, brother of Moses, Jebel Haroun
Martin Gray

Martin Gray is a cultural anthropologist, writer and photographer specializing in the study of pilgrimage traditions and sacred sites around the world. During a 40 year period he has visited more than 2000 pilgrimage places in 165 countries. The World Pilgrimage Guide at sacredsites.com is the most comprehensive source of information on this subject.