Byzantine Church Ruins, Amman

The Byzantine Church was constructed in the 6th century AD. It is characterized by its basilica plan, a hallmark of Byzantine architectural design. Its architectural layout comprises a central nave flanked by two side aisles. This arrangement created a sense of grandeur within the sacred space, allowing congregants to gather and worship in an awe-inspiring environment.

The eastern end of the church culminates in a semi-circular apse, a distinctive feature that served as a focal point for religious ceremonies and rituals. Separated from the main body of the church by a chancel screen, the apse held profound spiritual significance, and its design and decoration held deep religious symbolism.

Intriguingly, the Corinthian capitals that adorn some of the columns within the basilica were repurposed from the nearby Temple of Hercules. The aisles of the church, designed with meticulous attention to detail, feature flagstone paving that adds both practicality and aesthetic value to the sacred space. The meticulous craftsmanship of the era is evident in every stone.

Adjacent to the main basilica, one can discover rectangular rooms, which are believed to have been added by the Umayyads approximately a century later. These additions are a testament to the enduring significance of the site across different epochs.

One of the most captivating features of the Byzantine Church is its mosaic-paved nave, a characteristic feature of the Byzantine period. While the mosaic floor is now covered for protection, it harkens back to a time when the church's interior would have been adorned with intricate and colorful designs, reflecting the artistic and religious sensibilities of the era.