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USD $94.00
Private Half-Day Tour to Bethany Baptism Site from Amman
Amman, Jordan
The Baptism Site (In Arabic named: El-Maghtas) on the Jordan side of the Jordan River is one of the most important recent discoveries in biblical archaeology where John the Baptist lived and Jesus was baptized. This area is not only associated with Christianity but also related to the three divine religions: Jewish, Christian, and Islam with the ascension of the Prophet Elijah into heaven. This Bethany should not be confused with Bethany in Jerusalem, where Mary Magdalene lived and Lazarus was raised from the dead. It is just a unique place to visit and a most to complete your pilgrimage tour.
Drive towards the Jordan Valley to visit the baptism sight, located on the east side of the Jordan River, recognized by the Vatican during the visit of John Paul II in 2000 to be the official baptism sight of Jesus Christ and a very important pilgrimage area to visit. This tour is just indescribable and related to ones own faith. Many baptisms and re baptisms can be organized as a symbol of ones faith.
Excavations only began here in 1996, following Jordan's peace treaty with Israel in 1994, but have already uncovered more than 20 churches, caves and baptismal pools dating from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Upgrade your tour with a visit to Iraq Al Amir; its a town located about 15 km southwest of Wadi Al Seer Amman on high and medium altitude hills with many caves which date back to the Copper Age. This area has with many springs, and is famous for its olive and pine trees. Visit the historical restored palace known as “Qasr Al Abd” which literally means the Palace of the Servant built during the Hellenistic period 3rd century B.C. This palace was reused under Byzantine rule before being destroyed by an earthquake. Then return to your hotel in Amman.
I was picked up at my hotel lobby right on time. My driver was very courteous and taught me a lot about the village culture on my way to Bethany. He even stopped to buy me a tea on the way. The visit to Bethany itself was excellent. My guide there was very good and was able to answer all my questions thoroughly. It was quite an experience to visit the baptismal site of Christ. The walk ways were shaded and peaceful and the informational signs offered good explanation. The tour wasn't rushed and I had plenty of time to take it all in. And getting to see the Israeli side of the river just a few feet away was also a very interesting experience. Everyone had an opportunity to go in the river if they wanted to and gowns were available for purchase. I was really glad I took an extra day to take this tour and visit the site. A very special place.
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