Jordan, is a semi-arid country in the Middle East situated at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe within the Levant. It is officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and has an area of 89,000 square kilometers and a population of around 10 million. 

The country takes its name from the Jordan River, which forms its northwestern border. There are a few theories as to the origin of the river’s name, but the most plausible is that it is derived from the Semitic word “yarad” which means the descender. 

Historically, the country as we know it today was conquered by Alexander the Great and later disputed between the Petelomist based in Egypt and the Seleucids based in Syria. These Greek powers were challenged by a nomadic Arab kingdom called the Nabateans whose capital Petra flourished in the first century AD. This has been a world heritage site since 1985 and has been described as one of the most precious cultural properties of man’s cultural heritage. The Nabateans were followed by the Romans under Pompeii in a rule that lasted four centuries. This also left behind some beautiful ancient ruins such as Jerash and Arbila. 

Jordan also boasts the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea which is minus 420 meters below sea level. The historically famous Wadi Rum which has the highest elevation in Jordan is also a fascinating area to visit and has the connection to Lawrence of Arabia, 7 pillars of wisdom. This is where Lawrence based himself during part of the first world war, when he made his forays against the Ottoman Empire. 

Jordan is a gem of a country in the Levant, and is definitely worth a visit in conjunction with other Middle Eastern countries or as a stand-alone.