Why Does Amman and Jordan Lack Ancient Mosques?

It is true that Amman, the capital of Jordan, and the country as a whole, do not boast an abundance of ancient mosques like some other regions in the Middle East. This raises questions about the historical and developmental aspects of this region. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this absence, the historical context, and theories that have been proposed.

Historical Background and Islamic Spread

Islam spread rapidly across the region, and Jordan, as one of the first countries where Islam was established, should logically possess significant historical monuments such as ancient mosques. However, to date, there is a notable absence of ancient mosques in Amman and the wider Jordanian landscape.

Theories and Theoretical Insights

Theory 1: Reputation and Attractions

One plausible explanation for the relative scarcity of ancient mosques is that the region was relatively inhospitable for large populations due to its rugged terrain and limited water resources. Historically, areas like Jerusalem and Damascus, which were known for their fertile lands, abundance of water, and strategic locations, attracted more significant development. If someone held power and authority, they would likely prefer to build and develop in more hospitable environments, rather than in challenging terrains where construction and habitation were more difficult.

Additionally, ancient Jordan did not always have clear geographical and political boundaries. The area around Amman was a crossroads for various civilizations and cultures, meaning that any authority might not have seen the strategic advantage of building large structures in this region.

Theory 2: Archaeological Evidence

Despite the lack of visible ancient mosques, there is evidence of other historical structures in the region. For instance, the Al-Husseini Mosque, which dates back to the early caliphate era, and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, which has historical significance, are examples of early Islamic and pre-Islamic structures. The caves and cemeteries in the Jordan Valley also have numerous references to the presence of early Islamic mosques.

Theory 3: Historical Destruction and Reconstruction

Another theory is that the area had significant Christian Crusader entities, and when different religious invasions occurred, they often destroyed old religious buildings and used their stones and pillars to construct their own structures. This process is a well-documented phenomenon and can be seen in other regions where Islamic and Christian rulers had conflict. For instance, in Andalusia, a region that saw the domination of both Muslims and Christians, mosques and churches were often destroyed and rebuilt, leading to the loss of many historical structures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the absence of ancient mosques in Amman and Jordan can be attributed to a combination of geographical challenges, historical events, and cultural displacements. While the region lacks the abundance of ancient mosques found in neighboring regions, it still harbors significant historical and archaeological treasures. Further research and exploration could help uncover more about the historical development of Jordan and its role in the broader Islamic world.

Understanding these factors not only sheds light on the unique history and challenges of Jordan but also provides insights into the broader context of Islamic archaeology and ancient architecture in the region.