The Umm Al-Jimāl Interpretive Trail and Signs
The Interpretive Trail was developed between 2015 and 2017. After a safe walked oath was cleared between buildings, following the ancient pathways in the town, signage was created and installed. The Umm Al-Jimāl Interpretive Trail currently has 35 signs, including a trail map at each entrance, with site narrative in English and Arabic. Sign content and layout were provided by experts from Project and Open Hand Studios, under Department of Antiquities supervision. The signs themselves were made locally in Mafraq, which created a new local sign- production industry. An initial set of six signs were supported by USAID/Siyaha grant and subsequent signs were funded by USAID/SCHEP and the PAX Fund.
Visit the trail virtually by viewing the signs below:
The Interpretive and Hospitality Center
The House 119 farmstead, excavated by the Project in 1993, was adapted as a site visitor center by the Ministry of Tourism and the Umm Al-Jimāl Archaeological Project, under the supervision of Department of Antiquities. Funding for structural repairs was provided by the Ministry of Tourism; funding for the design, construction, and installation of the museum, courtyard and hospitality spaces was provided by the Gerda Henkel Foundation and the PAX Fund. The design by Khammash Architects carefully sought to juxtapose contemporary modifications from the ancient building, while still maintaining the use of local materials and ensuring the new additions were in harmony with the ruins.
The Center, which opened in 2019, features: a large courtyard, an inscription garden, museum, gift shop, bathrooms, and a small café.
Courtyard
This large, open area is designed not just to cater to tourists, but also to local residents: the space has hosted various community events and also offers interactive, educational activities for children.
One important display on a wall in the courtyard is a replica of the Edict of Byzantine Emperor Anastasios, funded by the German Research Association and the Gerda Henkel Stiftung. Although most of the original stones were removed in antiquity, scholars agree that the edict was originally on display at Umm Al-Jimāl before much of it was taken south to Qasr Hallabat. The 6th-century inscription, which discusses military organization and the duties of officials, may have originally been part of the north wall of the West Church or the perimeter wall around the Praetorium.
Museum and Inscription Garden
The theme of the interpretive narrative in the museum is: How Did They Live? How Do We Know? The exhibits highlight the human habitation of Umm Al-Jimāl over the centuries, including modern life around the ancient site. The museum includes an introduction to archaeological practice and stratigraphy and an interactive pottery display.
The inscription garden showcases just under one hundred inscriptions and architectural fragments from Umm Al-Jimāl, which are nested between native plants. Individual signs for each inscription are forthcoming.
Gift Shop and Cafe
The gift shop features locally made goods and crafts, as well as those from other cooperatives across Jordan.
The café at the site offers basic drinks and snacks, and a cozy place to sit and rest after walking the trails. For those interested in larger meals, a local cooperative can provide catering and other services. [LINK]