Widely referred to by a large part of the Christian Faith as one of the holiest sites of Christianity and believed to be the spot John The Baptist lived for about 20 years and baptized Jesus Christ, the Al-Maghtas is a must-visit for a lot of people. The over 2000 years old historical site is located on the East bank of the River Jordan, a few kilometres from the Dead Sea. The Baptismal site which was said to have many churches built after the death of John The Baptist was neglected for some time before the discovery of the Madaba map by a Jerusalem scholar that led to the reignition of the area and pilgrim resettlement. A lot of people recognize it as the place of the birth of Christianity, but it is also said to be the same spot where Elijah rose into heaven.This archaeological site which has been in existence since the Byzantine era is said to be very special and unique in its way as it means a lot to people of the Christian faith who come from all over the world to see the site or come for pilgrimage to seek a closer relationship with God or improve their spiritual lives. It is not just one of Jordan's most visited tourist attractions but it has also become a home to many Christians.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, after it was declared so in 2015, Al-Maghtas also known as 'Bethany Beyond the Jordan' is richly filled with biblical history and has a lot of places to explore. It is usually easy to tour via the bus but the rigorous walks of some kilometres allow a better view and exploration of the site. St. John The Baptist church is one of the first places you would see as you start the tour.
You can also check out the remains of churches, prayer rooms, dwellings of monks, and have priests or local guides take you through the history and significance of every archaeological area you get to tour here. Interestingly, priests around can also perform rites for you at the new baptism pool or the old one. Baptism takes place in these areas almost every day. You also have the free will to go with your priest to perform the rites. One thing you would love to experience by visiting the Al-Maghtas is that you can view Israel on one side and Jordan on the other. With its closeness to the country's capital, taking a trip to Al-Maghsta is never a bad idea either to get to know more about history, seek clarity or to grow spiritually.
John The Baptist Spring
River Jordan
Modern Baptismal Site
Ancient Baptismal Site
Dead Sea
Mosaic of King Abdullah II
Elijah's Hill (Jabar Mar Elias)
Pilgrim and Hermit Caves
New Churches
Roman and Byazantine Churches
St John The Baptist Church
By Car
From Amman, the capital of Jordan, it takes about 50 minutes to get to Al-Maghtas on the road that leads to the Dead Sea. The distance is about 57.1km
The fuel to be used would cost around $ 6 to $ 10.
A shuttle bus operates every 30 minutes within the premises and it is a 2 km to 3 km walk to get to the baptismal site from the bus drop off
It is usually hot during the summer, so it is best to take sunglasses, caps or hats along
During winter, there might be an overflow of the banks or flood, so one should be prepared
If you visit during summer, it is best to start touring around the site early so as to avoid the high temperature
There is a gift shop around for those interested in picking up memorabilia
Take water along especially if you are visiting during summer
You can have your pilgrimage here
Prepare to walk long distances so wear suitable footwear
Explore the environment and try to have a feel of the River Jordan
The Baptismal site is most likely the lowest point on earth
Private cars are not allowed inside the site
There is a tour bus available for people who can't walk long distances
Winter: November to April
Sunday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
(Last entry by 3:00 p.m.)
Summer: April to October
Sunday: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
(Last entry by 4:00 p.m.)
During Ramadan, Last entry is usually by 3:00 p.m.
Waiting Time
Yes.
30 minutes to 1 hour
Entrance Fee
There is usually an entry fee to go into the Al-Maghtas. Jordanians are charged 3 JDs while Arab citizens are charged 5 JDs
Foreign nationals are charged 12 JDs as entry fee
It is important to note that only cash is accepted in buying the entry ticket
Time you can spend
You can spend the whole day at the site
Weather
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