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Mosaic Map (Madaba Map)

The Mosaic Map, also known as the Madaba Map, is one of the most important and impressive historical artifacts in Jordan. Located in the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George in Madaba, this ancient mosaic map dates back to the 6th century and offers a detailed representation of the Holy Land. The map originally depicted Jerusalem and its surroundings, with remarkable accuracy for its time. The mosaic is made of over two million colorful pieces of stone, showcasing towns, cities, and landmarks, including the Dead Sea, the Jordan River, and Mount Nebo. The map is considered a treasure of early Christian art and a unique window into the geography of the biblical world.

 

Mosaic Map (Madaba Map) Tours & Excursions

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Madaba - Jordan

Full Day Tour in Baptism Site, Mount Nebo and Madaba

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Day Trips
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€74
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The Basics

The Madaba Map covers an area of about 25 square meters and is the most famous example of ancient mosaic cartography. It was discovered in 1896 when the church was being renovated, revealing the intricate design beneath the floor. Although parts of the map are now missing, the remaining sections provide an incredible look at how early Christians viewed and documented their sacred geography. The mosaic is housed in St. George’s Church, which is located in the heart of Madaba. The church is open to visitors, with an entrance fee required. The mosaic is easily accessible and is accompanied by informative signage in English to help visitors appreciate its historical significance.

 

Things to Know Before You Go

When visiting the Madaba Map, it's important to be respectful of the sacred site. The church is an active place of worship, so visitors should be mindful of church services or events happening during their visit. The mosaic is best viewed from a raised platform in the church to protect it from foot traffic. Photography is allowed, but be sure to avoid using flash as it can damage the artwork. While Madaba can be warm in the summer, the church’s interior remains cool and shaded, making it a pleasant stop during a hot day. Be prepared for a short but memorable visit, as it usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes to fully appreciate the mosaic.

 

How to Get There

The Madaba Map is located inside St. George’s Church, which is centrally located in Madaba. The town of Madaba is easily reachable from major Jordanian cities such as Amman, which is about 30 minutes away by car. From the Madaba bus station or central areas, you can easily walk to the church. Taxis and local transportation also frequently pass through Madaba, and drivers are often familiar with the location of St. George's Church. If you're on a guided tour, the map is typically included as one of the key stops in the Madaba region.

 

When to Get There

The best time to visit the Madaba Map is during the cooler months, from March to May and September to November. These months offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit. If you plan to visit during the summer, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the heat. The church itself provides some relief from the heat with its cool, shaded interior. Since the map is a well-known attraction in Madaba, it is often best to visit early in the day to avoid crowds, particularly on weekends or holidays.

 

Day Trips from Madaba

The Madaba Map is a key highlight for anyone spending time in Madaba and is often combined with other nearby attractions. Many visitors include it in a day trip to Mount Nebo, which is just a short drive away, or to the Dead Sea, making for a diverse and memorable itinerary. If you have more time, a visit to the archaeological museum in Madaba provides additional context about the region's history. For those interested in exploring more mosaics, the Madaba Archaeological Park and other churches around the town also feature fascinating ancient artworks.