Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sights
The
museum
has some interesting milestones, information on mosaics and a 3-D map of
the area.
The
basilica
, built around 4th-century foundations in AD 597, is currently under recon-
struction, but it houses important
mosaics
(from around AD 530). The masterpiece is a
hunting and herding scene interspersed with an assortment of African fauna, including a
zebu (humped ox), lions, tigers, bears, boars, zebras, an ostrich on a leash and a camel-
shaped giraffe.
In the courtyard, an Italian-designed
bronze memorial
symbolises the suffering and
death of Jesus on the cross and the serpent that 'Moses lifted up' in the desert.
Some of the complex is part of a functioning monastery and is therefore off limits to
visitors.
To enjoy the views away from the crowds, pack a picnic and hike along the road down-
hill from the site (towards the Dead Sea) for 100m and take the track to the left to the
nearby hilltop.
MOSES MEMORIAL CHURCH
RESTORATION
At the time of writing, the roof of Moses Memorial Church was being refitted in a project estimated to take at least
three years. The church is being expanded at the same time so the famed mosaics are off limits until 2014. Although
the church is closed, the view of Moses' Promised Land (Jerusalem is just 46km away) from the viewing platform
still makes Mt Nebo a worthwhile trip en route between Madaba and the Dead Sea.
Eating
Asa Moses Restaurant$$
( 3250226; buffet JD9; 12.30-4pm; )
If you happen to be around Mt Nebo at
lunchtime, call into this recommended trestle- tabled place, also called Siyagha Restaur-
ant. Every day it produces an excellent buffet, which includes Jordan's famous
maqlubbeh
(upside-down dish) and a variety of vegetarian options in this restaurant. The stone pillars
and reed ceiling add to the 'been here forever' ambience and you can take a glass of after-
BUFFET
