Jordan Tafilah Governorate: A History of Ancient and Modern Times
Jordan Tafilah Governorate is one of the most historically significant regions in all of Jordan. Located in the far western part of the country, it has been a part of the Hashemite Kingdom since the 1920s, and has been home to many of the country’s most important historical sites. From the ancient ruins of Petra, to the modern city of Tafilah, to the stunning natural landscapes of the region, the governorate has plenty to offer to those interested in learning more about the region’s past.
The history of the region dates back to the dawn of civilization, when the Nabataeans settled in the area in the 4th century BC. The Nabataeans were a Semitic people who established a powerful kingdom that stretched from the Sinai Peninsula in the south to Damascus in the north. During this period, the Nabataeans built their capital at Petra, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited historical sites in the world.
In the 1st century AD, the region was conquered by the Roman Empire, and it remained under Roman rule until the 7th century, when it was conquered by the Islamic Rashidun Caliphate. The region then became part of the Umayyad Caliphate, which ruled until the 10th century. During this period, the region was known as Jund Filastin and was part of the larger province of Bilad al-Sham.
In the 12th century, the Ayyubid dynasty came to power in the region and established the Ayyubid Sultanate, which was later replaced by the Mamluk Sultanate in 1250. The Mamluks ruled until 1516, when they were defeated by the Ottoman Empire. The region then became part of the Ottoman Empire until the end of World War I, when it was incorporated into the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Today, the Jordan Tafilah Governorate is home to a variety of cultural and historical sites, including the ancient city of Petra, the modern city of Tafilah, and the stunning natural landscapes of the region. The area is also home to a number of archaeological sites, including the ancient Roman city of Gerasa, which is now known as Jerash.
Jordan Tafilah Governorate is a region that has seen a great deal of change over the centuries, but it has also managed to maintain its rich cultural heritage and its unique identity. From its ancient ruins to its modern cities, the region is a testament to the resilience of the Jordanian people and their commitment to preserving their history and culture.