Below is an easy-to-browse gallery
of books that cater to those who are interested in visiting Jordan or learning
more about its ancient past. The majority of descriptions below are by independent
editors. Feel free to purchase these books directly from Amazon.com!
Ancient
Jordan from the Air :
Jordan is part both of the Fertile Crescent and the Holy Land. Its archaeological
remains extend in time from prehistory to the British Empire. The country is,
of course, renowned for the magnificent ruins at Petra - a World Heritage Site
- and the superb remains of the Roman city of Jarash. But beyond these high profile
places is a rich and varied cultural heritage.
Sites are everywhere in
this great outdoor museum: one tally has calculated over 25,000 sites visible
above ground alone, making Jordan one of the great treasure houses of the world.
Even at ground level these sites are striking and memorable, but the best view,
as is so often the case, is seen from the air. This book will appeal to anyone
interested in the cultural heritage of the Middle East. Contains 4 maps and 219
color photographs.
...In this lavishly illustrated book, Maria Giulia Amadasi Guzzo and Eugenia Equini
Schneider provide an accessible overview of the history and culture of the Nabateans,
including their language, religion, politics, and economy, as well as a detailed
guide to the city of Petra and its art and architecture. A major stop on the spice
trade route, Petra attracted wealth and culture from across the Arabic and classical
worlds and was abundantly furnished with more than 800 monuments.
Perhaps
the most well known of these is the Khazneh el-Faroun, or Treasury, a royal tomb
more than 130 feet high with a magnificent Hellenistic facade carved from the
salmon pink sandstone of the surrounding cliffs. But no less impressive were Petra's
advanced achievements in hydraulic engineering, including elaborate water conservation
systems and dams. For anyone who has felt the lure and wonder of ancient cities
and civilizations in exotic locations, Petra will be a delightful and invaluable
resource.
"Judith McKenzie's new book reconsiders all of the Classical structures at
Petra, and is the new standard reference for its architecture....This book is
very thorough, provides a convincing analysis of the development of architecture
of Petra, and is extensively illustrated with plates of good quality....McKenzie
is to be praised for providing a new standard source on Petra's architecture,
as well as chapters of great interest on Hellenistic architecture in Alexandria
and on the Second Style."--American Journal of Archaeology.
"The Rough Guide to Jordan" is the essential guide to the Middle East's
most enticing destination. This title features detailed accounts of the best attractions
Jordan has to offer, along with the clearest Jordan maps and plans, lift the lid
on this fascinatingly diverse country. With expert advice and background, explore
the world wonder that is Petra, an ancient city carved from rose-red mountain
cliffs, roam the sands of Wadi Rum in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, and
then relax on golden beaches at Aqaba, Jordan's beautiful Red Sea resort hideaway.
You'll find detailed guidance on getting the best out of a visit to Amman,
the buzzing Jordanian capital, as well as Crusader castles and stunningly well
preserved Roman cities. Float your cares away on the Dead Sea, the lowest point
on Earth, or take in spectacular views over the Dana biosphere reserve.
At every point, the Rough Guide steers you in the right direction to find the
best hotels in Jordan, recommended Jordan restaurants, cafes and shops across
every price range, giving you clear, balanced reviews and honest, first-hand opinions.
This title helps to explore all corners of Jordan with authoritative background
on Jordan's culture and history, the clearest maps of any guide and practical
language tips. Make the most of your holiday with "The Rough Guide to Jordan".
Nobody knows Jordan like Lonely Planet. Our 7th edition will help you discover
the magic of this ancient land - whether it be basking in the sun-drenched glory
of Petra, exploring the desert citadels, getting off the beaten track on a camel
safari or simply sipping a bittersweet cardamom-flavored coffee...In This Guide:
-
Extended coverage of Petra and Wadi Rum.
- Full-color Outdoor guide covering
hiking, camel trekking, cycling and more.
- Unique Green Index highlights
the best eco-tourism options.
This book provides the traveler to the Eastern Mediterranean with a practical
aid for communicating in Arabic. It is based on the spoken language widely understood
in Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine/Israel and Syria.
- A brief description of
Arabic grammar.
- A pronunciation guide.
- Over 2,000 entries of
useful and up-to-date phrases and basic key vocabulary.
- Easy-to-use commonsense
pronunciation.
- Phrases covering all topics a traveler needs to know,
including numbers, transportation, shopping, eating out, and much more.
Jordan is part both of the Fertile Crescent and the Holy Land. Its archaeological
remains extend in time from prehistory to the British Empire. The country is,
of course, renowned for the magnificent ruins at Petra - a World Heritage Site
- and the superb remains of the Roman city of Jarash. But beyond these high profile
places is a rich and varied cultural heritage. 
...In this lavishly illustrated book, Maria Giulia Amadasi Guzzo and Eugenia Equini
Schneider provide an accessible overview of the history and culture of the Nabateans,
including their language, religion, politics, and economy, as well as a detailed
guide to the city of Petra and its art and architecture. A major stop on the spice
trade route, Petra attracted wealth and culture from across the Arabic and classical
worlds and was abundantly furnished with more than 800 monuments. 
"Judith McKenzie's new book reconsiders all of the Classical structures at
Petra, and is the new standard reference for its architecture....This book is
very thorough, provides a convincing analysis of the development of architecture
of Petra, and is extensively illustrated with plates of good quality....McKenzie
is to be praised for providing a new standard source on Petra's architecture,
as well as chapters of great interest on Hellenistic architecture in Alexandria
and on the Second Style."--American Journal of Archaeology.
"The Rough Guide to Jordan" is the essential guide to the Middle East's
most enticing destination. This title features detailed accounts of the best attractions
Jordan has to offer, along with the clearest Jordan maps and plans, lift the lid
on this fascinatingly diverse country. With expert advice and background, explore
the world wonder that is Petra, an ancient city carved from rose-red mountain
cliffs, roam the sands of Wadi Rum in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, and
then relax on golden beaches at Aqaba, Jordan's beautiful Red Sea resort hideaway.
Nobody knows Jordan like Lonely Planet. Our 7th edition will help you discover
the magic of this ancient land - whether it be basking in the sun-drenched glory
of Petra, exploring the desert citadels, getting off the beaten track on a camel
safari or simply sipping a bittersweet cardamom-flavored coffee...In This Guide:
This book provides the traveler to the Eastern Mediterranean with a practical
aid for communicating in Arabic. It is based on the spoken language widely understood
in Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine/Israel and Syria.
