Citadel Hill

　　    Introduction           Citadel Hill is the highest point in Amman and was once the site of the city’s original fortress, closely tied to Amman’s history.            In the 11th century BC, the Kingdom of Ammon, which worshipped the Egyptian sun god, established its capital on Citadel Hill. At that time, the capital was called “Ammun,” which later evolved into “Amman.” Around Citadel Hill, square, rectangular, and circular fortresses or watchtowers were built from large stone blocks. Two statues of Ammonite kings excavated at the hilltop provide evidence that the artistry of the Ammonites was similar to that of the Egyptians and Assyrians.                  Around 300 BC, Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the king of Macedonia, named Amman “Philadelphia” after himself, with the city then primarily located on Citadel Hill. Around the turn of the era, Amman became the capital of an important administrative region under the Arab Umayyad Caliphate, and the name reverted back to “Amman.” The Arabs built the Qasr Al-Abd (Emir’s Palace) on Citadel Hill, facing east. The remaining structures above ground include the Temple of Hercules from the Roman period, the Umayyad palace complex, and a Byzantine church. Archaeological digs have also uncovered numerous artifacts from the Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic periods.              Citadel Hill also offers the best panoramic views of downtown Amman. From the top, you can see the city’s white buildings spread out in a cascade of varying heights, giving you a vivid sense of why Amman is known as the “White City.” At the foot of the hill lies the ancient Roman Theater, which nestles in the city like a half-circle and still frequently hosts performances in the summer.

　　 Amman, Jordan