Roman History: Hippodrome in Jerash Jordan

The hippodrome of the ancient Jerash dates back to the 3rd century and was probably intended for horse and chariot racing and sporting competitions. It had a huge grandstand for several thousand spectators. The actual use changed several times over the centuries: the hippodrome became an amphitheater, a workshop for potters and dyers, a quarry and finally a mass grave for plague victims. The ruins of the hippodrome can be visited. A 3D animation takes you on a journey through time into Roman history.

Panorama with central hippodrome in Jerash Gerasa Jordan

Vacation • Jordan • Jerash Gerasa • Sightseeing Jerash Gerasa • Hippodrome • 3D animation hippodrome

The Hippodrome of Jerash in Jordan is a remarkable testament to Roman history in the ancient city. 

• Sports competitions: The Hippodrome of Jerash was an ancient stadium used for athletic competitions and chariot races, which were extremely popular in the Roman Empire.
• Architectural splendor: The Hippodrome is a testament to Roman architecture and engineering aimed at entertaining large crowds.
• Social meeting places: Chariot races in the hippodrome were not only sporting events, but also social meeting places where people from the Roman city came together.
• Cultural exchange: Events at the Hippodrome brought people from different cultures and backgrounds together and promoted cultural exchange.
• Roman entertainment: The Hippodrome reflects the Roman Empire's penchant for public entertainment and spectacle.
• importance of community: The Hippodrome as a meeting point for the Roman City of Jerash reminds us of the importance of creating places of gathering and community.
• competition and passion: Athletic competitions in the hippodrome were characterized by passion and competition and show how these aspects influence human life.
• The legacy of the Roman Empire: The Hippodrome is part of the legacy of the Roman Empire in Jerash and reminds us of how empires leave their cultural mark on the territories they conquered.
• Connection of architecture and culture: The architecture of the Hippodrome reflects the culture of the Roman Empire and shows how architecture can shape a cultural identity.
• The changing times: The Jerash Hippodrome is now a historical monument that reminds us how times change and how places that were once the scene of spectacles and entertainment become symbols of the past.

The story of the Hippodrome of Jerash is a fascinating chapter in Roman history and opens up space for philosophical reflections on community, culture, competition and the changing times. It is a place where the past and the present merge, inspiring us to reflect on the importance of public gathering spaces and the evolution of societies.

Vacation • Jordan • Jerash Gerasa • Sightseeing Jerash Gerasa • Hippodrome • 3D animation hippodrome