Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
tions, and closes with more modern displays on rural Bedouin life. One of the highlights
of the museum is a reconstruction of a traditional Arab pharmacy and smithy. Worth a vis-
it is the adjacent Numismatic Hall which has some fascinating displays on the history of
money over the last 2600 years. All displays are labelled in English.
Jordan Natural History Museum
( 7211111; 8am-5pm Sun-Thu)
Encompassing a range of stuffed animals, birds and
insects, as well as rocks from the region, this may not be to everybody's taste but it is at
least a good place to identify some of Jordan's most elusive species. The museum is in the
huge green hangar No 23.
MUSEUM
Dar As Saraya Museum
( 245613; Al Baladia St; 8am-6pm)
Located in a stunning old villa of basaltic rock,
just behind the town hall, this new museum is a real gem. Built in 1886 by the Ottomans,
the building is typical of the caravanserai established along the Syrian pilgrimage route
with rooms arranged a paved internal courtyard. It was used as a prison until 1994 and
now houses a delightful collection of local artefacts illustrating Irbid's long history. Don't
miss the olive press in the courtyard, nor the impressive basalt doors with 'iron' bolts
carved in stone.
MUSEUM
Beit Arar
(Al-Hashemi St; 9am-5pm Sun-Thu)
Set up to host cultural events, Beit Arar is located
in a superb old Damascene-style house. The rooms are set around a courtyard paved with
volcanic black stones and there are manuscripts and photo displays of Arar, one of
Jordan's finest poets.
MUSEUM
Sleeping
It has to be said that the standard of hotels in Irbid is not great. The redeeming feature, es-
pecially among the budget options, is the great friendliness of the welcome.
Al-Joude Hotel$
HOTEL
