MIMAR is a regional institute that offers diplomas in mosaic art and restoration. It is a non-profit government-run establishment that endeavours to keep the art of mosaics alive through education. Its staff and students have managed to restore many of the ancient mosaics found in Madaba and other parts of Jordan.

New intricate mosaics are also made here, with the most notable work being a replica of the Byzantine map of the Holy Land. Feel free to go inside and wander around the courtyard. The institute also offers mosaic classes for visitors that are interested in learning the basics of this delicate art.

While this isn’t its official name, ‘Artisan Street’ is known among the locals for its abundance of local handicraft workshops and display rooms. Here you will find everything from hand-woven traditional rugs and carpets, to mosaics and silver jewellery. Take your time browsing through the shops and meeting the friendly artisans and shop owners.

The Archaeological Park contains many Byzantine churches, as well as the remains of a Roman road that extended through the city in ancient times. You can visit the Church of the Virgin and the Hippolytus Hall, which are renowned for their incredible mosaics. The Martyrs’ Church also has a beautifully preserved mosaic floor.

Opening hours: 8am to 5pm daily, except Tuesdays.

Ramadan opening hours: 8am to 3pm daily, except Tuesdays.

Archaeological Park entrance fee: 2 Jordanian dinars.

Fee includes entry to Apostles Church and the Madaba Museum.

The main attraction of Madaba, this church houses what remains of the famed 6th century mosaic map of the Holy Land. Unearthed in 1864, this map once contained millions of mosaic pieces and described the cities, landscapes, and towns of the biblical areas on both the east and west banks of the Jordan River. Today, one third of the map survives and is the earliest surviving representation of the city of Jerusalem to date.

There is an information centre nearby the church where you can read more about the history of this remarkable mosaic.

Opening hours: 8am to 4:30pm Monday–Saturday.

Sunday opening hours: 10am to 4:30pm.

Church of St George entrance fee: 1 Jordanian dinar.

Abu Yousef Restaurant is Madaba’s very first restaurant. For years, Abu Yousef has been serving traditional Jordanian food every day to the city’s residents. The menu and décor are simple, but it is most definitely worth a visit to taste and experience local culinary history.

This site has not been completely excavated yet, but as you pass by you can still see a collection of ancient stone building foundations and arches. As with various sites around Madaba, it was discovered by chance by a local citizen, when he began digging to build foundations for his residence. The site holds remains of a Byzantine villa, and fortification parts of an Iron Age—a wall that is the largest of its kind found in Jordan to date.

This charming little museum is set in a series of heritage homes connected by a courtyard space. Here you will find further mosaics, including a square one in the courtyard that depicts two rams tied to a tree, an image that often recalls Abraham’s sacrifice. There is also a small heritage museum that shows the traditional lifestyle of Madaba, with antique pottery, household and cooking items, and pottery from various ages. Here, you will also find examples of costumes and jewellery typically worn by Madabites.

Opening hours: 8am to 5pm daily, except Tuesdays.

Ramadan opening hours: 8am to 3pm, except Tuesdays.

Madaba Museum entrance fee: included in Archaeological Park ticket.

This Roman Catholic church from the 19th century is devoted to John the Baptist and a must-visit. It lies atop a series of subterranean caves and rooms, which are still being excavated. To see these rooms, you need to go underground. A few have been converted into a museum. The church bell tower offers an excellent view over the city of Madaba and is worth the climb.

Opening hours: 9am to 7pm.

John the Baptist entrance fee: 1 Jordanian dinar.

‘Saraya’ is a Turkish word that refers to an Ottoman administrative building, dating back to the time when Jordan was under Ottoman rule, and was built in the late 19th century.

After the Arab Revolt, the building was used as a police station, with an administration floor and jail cells in the basement. It has now been renovated and converted into a restaurant. 

This small gallery exhibits works by Jordanian painters and local artists from Madaba. Fine art classes are offered here, which are taught by the directors of the gallery:—Ziad Newash and Michael Ajelat. Their works are exhibited locally and internationally.

Opening hours: 10am to 11pm.

This is one of the oldest mosques in Madaba and was restored in 2008. The mosque has two towers and the design is inspired by Ottoman architecture. You may note a resemblance in appearance with the Aya Sophia mosque in Istanbul.