Madaba – The City of Mosaics and living traditions, famed for its ancient art, vibrant communities, and rich Christian heritage in the heart of Jordan.
Known as the “City of Mosaics,” Madaba is a vibrant blend of art, history, and everyday Jordanian life. Just 30 km southwest of Amman, the city is cherished for its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, warm hospitality, and deep-rooted traditions. Its workshops, family-run restaurants, and community experiences allow travelers to connect with Jordan’s cultural heart through craft, cuisine, and storytelling.
Location: Madaba to Mukawir Route – Cycling & Scenic Experience
Set out on an unforgettable cycling journey from Madaba to the hilltop fortress of Mukawir, following tranquil backroads framed by rolling hills, olive groves, and open vistas of the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea. The route passes through quiet rural villages and ancient landscapes before reaching the dramatic mountaintop where John the Baptist was said to have been imprisoned and executed. This active experience blends fitness, nature, and history in one breathtaking ride.
Location: Madaba – Hands-on Art & Cultural Workshop
Discover the artistry that made Madaba world-famous with a hands-on mosaic workshop led by skilled local artisans. Learn the traditional techniques of selecting, cutting, and arranging stone and glass tesserae as you create your own mosaic artwork. Set in authentic, family-run studios that preserve centuries-old craft traditions, this experience is both educational and inspiring — and offers a meaningful, handmade souvenir to take home.
Location: Old City – Urban Adventure & Cultural Exploration
Explore the charm of Madaba’s old town on a guided cycling tour through its lively streets, bustling markets, and heritage-filled neighborhoods. Ride past key landmarks such as St. George’s Church, home to the iconic 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land, and stop at artisan shops and spice markets along the way. This active, immersive tour reveals the artistic spirit and warm community life that make Madaba unforgettable.
Location: Near Madaba – Cultural Dining & Heritage Experience
Enjoy a truly unique dining experience inside the ancient Moabite caves, hosted by the welcoming Salameh family. Savor home-cooked Jordanian dishes served by candlelight in stone-carved chambers that date back thousands of years. Stories of local history, traditional hospitality, and a magical atmosphere make this one of Madaba’s most memorable cultural encounters.
Location: Madaba – Cultural Workshop & Culinary Class
Join a local family for a creative experience that blends Jordanian cuisine with the art of Arabic calligraphy. Learn how to prepare traditional dishes like mansaf, tabbouleh, and mezze favorites, then sit with a skilled calligrapher to write your name or a meaningful phrase in beautiful handwritten Arabic script. This enriching workshop offers a perfect mix of culture, creativity, and connection.
Location: City Center – Historical & Cultural Exploration
Discover the cultural tapestry of Madaba on a guided walking tour through its historic streets and landmarks. Begin at the Church of St. George with its famous Mosaic Map, then continue to archaeological sites, artisan workshops, local galleries, and atmospheric cafés. This experience highlights the city’s harmonious blend of Christian and Muslim heritage and its enduring artistic traditions.
Location: Mount Nebo Road – Heritage & Interactive Museum
Step into Jordan’s past at the La Storia Tourism Complex, an interactive museum that recreates the country’s rich history through lifelike scenes, dioramas, and cultural displays. Visitors encounter biblical stories, ancient crafts, traditional villages, and Bedouin culture brought vividly to life. The museum also supports local artisans, making it an engaging stop for families, history lovers, and cultural explorers.
Location: Madaba – Culinary Workshop & Home Experience
Learn to cook like a Jordanian in this engaging, hands-on culinary workshop led by talented local women. Prepare dishes such as maqluba, stuffed vegetables, and refreshing salads using family recipes passed down through generations. After cooking, enjoy a shared meal in a cozy home setting — a delightful opportunity for cultural exchange and delicious food.
Location: Hikayet Sitti Food Basket – Cultural & Dining Experience
At the warm and welcoming Hikayet Sitti restaurant, enjoy a flavorful Jordanian meal followed by a traditional Turkish coffee fortune-telling ritual. After finishing your coffee, a local reader interprets the shapes left in your cup — a fun and culturally rich custom cherished across the region. It’s a lighthearted, intimate experience rooted in tradition and hospitality.
Location: Madaba – Heritage Restaurant & Cultural Dining
Set in a beautifully restored stone home, Hikayet Sitti (“My Grandmother’s Story”) offers a dining experience that feels like visiting a Jordanian family household. Guests enjoy lovingly prepared traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, surrounded by heritage décor, stories, and family memories. The restaurant preserves authentic recipes and Madaba’s culinary traditions, creating an atmosphere full of warmth, culture, and homemade flavor.
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