Roman Theatre in Jerash

Roman Theatre in Gerasa

04/2023 This imposing structure is the North Theater of the ancient city of Jerash (ancient Gerasa) in Jordan. As part of the Decapolis, the city flourished under Roman rule and is now one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world.

Built in 165 AD, the theater originally held approximately 1,600 spectators. It served not only as a venue for dramatic performances but also as a meeting place for the city council. The image shows the characteristic semicircular arrangement of the rows of seats and the elaborate, two-story stage in the background.

Today, the North Theater is an outstanding example of Roman architecture and is still in use. It serves as the main venue for the annual Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, which brings the ancient city to life with music and theater.