Discover the Charm of Amman Through Its Iconic Film Settings

Amman, the capital of Jordan, has been a favorite destination for filmmakers, authors, and television producers due to its rich history, diverse culture, and picturesque landscapes. From its ancient Roman ruins to its modern cityscape, Amman offers an array of fascinating experiences for travelers.

Cinematic Amman: 7 Famous Films Shot in Amman

Amman has been the backdrop for many famous films, showcasing its unique blend of old and new. Here are seven films that have used Amman’s landscapes to weave their captivating stories:

1. “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” (1989) – Parts of this iconic adventure film were shot in Petra, close to Amman, featuring its stunning ancient ruins.
2. “The Hurt Locker” (2009) – This Oscar-winning film about a bomb disposal team during the Iraq War was predominantly shot in Amman.
3. “Zero Dark Thirty” (2012) – The city’s urban landscapes and desert outskirts were used extensively in this film about the hunt for Osama bin Laden.
4. “Rosewater” (2014) – This biographical drama directed by Jon Stewart used Amman as a stand-in for Tehran.
5. “The Martian” (2015) – Wadi Rum, near Amman, was used as the filming location for Mars in this acclaimed science fiction film.
6. “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (2016) – The desert landscapes of Jordan, including Wadi Rum, were used for the planet Jedha.
7. “Aladdin” (2019) – The Live-action remake of Disney’s classic animated film, filmed scenes in the vast desert landscapes of Jordan, close to Amman.

These films offer a glimpse into the stunning landscapes and unique cityscapes of Amman, showcasing the city’s cinematic appeal.

Immersive Television: 5 TV Shows Set in Amman

Amman’s charm extends beyond the silver screen to the realm of television. Here are five TV shows that have leveraged the city’s unique appeal:

1. “Jinn” (2019-present) – This supernatural drama is Netflix’s first Arabic original series, filmed in various locations in Jordan including Amman.
2. “The State” (2017) – This four-part mini-series about ISIS recruits was filmed in Amman, standing in for Syria.
3. “The Spy” (2019) – Netflix’s historical drama, starring Sacha Baron Cohen, shot scenes in Amman to recreate the period setting of Syria in the 1960s.
4. “Fauda” (2015-present) – This critically acclaimed Israeli television series has filmed in Amman for its third season, using the city to depict the Gaza Strip.
5. “Baghdad Central” (2020-present) – This British crime thriller series used Amman as a filming location to depict war-torn Iraq.

Through these series, viewers get a glimpse of Amman’s diverse landscapes and its ability to adapt to different narrative needs.

Animated Amman: 3 Animated Films Set in Amman

Amman’s allure isn’t just limited to live-action films and television. The city has also served as an inspiration for several animated films:

1. “Saladin” (2011) – This animated series, co-produced by Jordan’s Rubicon Group Holding, features several episodes set in Amman.
2. “Ben & Izzy” (2008) – This educational animated series, created by Rubicon Group Holding, features two young boys exploring the city of Amman.
3. “Captain Abu Raed” (2007) – While not an animation, this award-winning Jordanian film features scenes that have been recreated in a popular local sand art exhibit, giving it an animated twist.

These animated features highlight another aspect of Amman’s charm, making it a versatile choice for various mediums.

Literary Amman: Famous Books Set in Amman

Amman’s rich cultural tapestry and historical landmarks have inspired numerous authors. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Amman:

Classic:

1. “Appointment with Death” by Agatha Christie – This murder mystery is set in Petra, near Amman, where Christie often visited.
2. “Leap of Faith” by Queen Noor – This autobiography by the American-born Queen of Jordan offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal life in Amman.
3. “Seven Pillars of Wisdom” by T.E. Lawrence – This autobiographical account of Lawrence’s experiences during the Arab Revolt includes descriptions of Amman.

Contemporary:

1. “The Cry of the Dove” by Fadia Faqir – This novel tells the story of a Bedouin woman living in Amman, exploring themes of identity and displacement.
2. “Snow in Amman” – This collection of short stories by various authors presents diverse narratives set in contemporary Amman.
3. “How to be Jordanian” by Omar Taher – This humorous book offers an insider’s guide to understanding Jordan’s culture and customs, with Amman as its focal point.

These books take readers on a literary journey through Amman, offering different perspectives of the city’s vibrant culture and history.

Exploring Amman’s Filming Locations: Where to Go

Amman, with its blend of ancient ruins and modern architecture, offers a plethora of fascinating locations for film buffs. Here are some must-visit places:

1. Amman Citadel and Roman Theatre – Featured in numerous films, these historic landmarks offer a glimpse of Amman’s rich past.
2. Wadi Rum – The location for films like “The Martian” and “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” its stunning desert landscapes are worth a visit.
3. Downtown Amman – The bustling heart of the city, with its traditional markets and street food, has been featured in shows like “Jinn.”
4. Petra – Near Amman, this iconic archaeological site has been used in films like “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.”
5. Rainbow Street – This popular street in Amman, known for its cafes and art galleries, has been a backdrop for several local films and music videos.

These locations offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them a must-visit for any film enthusiast visiting Amman.

Where to Sleep in Amman: From Budget to Luxury

Amman offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury options:

Budget:

1. “Jordan Tower Hotel” – This affordable hotel in downtown Amman offers basic amenities and a fantastic view of the Roman Amphitheater.
2. “Sydney Hotel” – Known for its friendly staff and clean rooms, this budget hotel is a short walk from downtown.
3. “Arab Tower Hotel” – Located in the heart of Amman, this hotel offers budget rooms with a view of the Amman Citadel.

Luxury:

1. “Four Seasons Hotel Amman” – Offering luxurious rooms and top-notch services, this hotel provides a panoramic view of Amman.
2. “The St. Regis Amman” – This luxury hotel in Amman’s 5th Circle offers lavish rooms and a spa.
3. “Amman Rotana” – The tallest building in Amman, this luxury hotel offers spectacular city views and modern amenities.

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or seeking luxury, Amman has a variety of accommodations to suit your needs.

A Taste of Amman: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Amman’s food scene offers a range of options from traditional Jordanian cuisine to modern fusion dishes. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury dining options:

Budget:

1. “Hashem Restaurant” – Known for its falafel and hummus, this downtown eatery is popular among locals and tourists.
2. “Al-Quds Restaurant” – A must-visit for its traditional Jordanian dish “mansaf.”
3. “Shawerma Reem” – Located in 2nd Circle, this food stand is famous for its shawerma wraps.

Luxury:

1. “La Capitale” – This French brasserie at the Four Seasons Hotel offers a luxurious dining experience.
2. “Vinaigrette” – Located at the Amman Rotana, this sushi bar offers a panoramic view of Amman.
3. “Fakhreldin Restaurant” – Set in a renovated villa, this restaurant offers a range of Arabic and Middle Eastern dishes.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or in search of gourmet cuisine, Amman’s diverse food scene has something to offer.

Exploring Amman: A Detailed Itinerary

Experience the cinematic charm of Amman with this five-day itinerary, discovering famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture:

Day 1: Historic Amman

Start with a visit to the Amman Citadel and Roman Theatre. Stroll through downtown Amman, enjoying traditional Jordanian cuisine at Hashem Restaurant.

Day 2: Modern Amman

Explore modern Amman by visiting the Royal Automobile Museum and the Boulevard in Abdali. Dine at La Capitale at the Four Seasons Hotel.

Day 3: Petra

Take a day trip to Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and filming location for “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.”

Day 4: Wadi Rum

Embark on a desert adventure to Wadi Rum, known as the “Valley of the Moon” and a filming location for “The Martian.”

Day 5: Relaxing in Amman

Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs in Rainbow Street and enjoying a luxurious dinner at Fakhreldin Restaurant.

Mysterious Amman: Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Beyond its cinematic appeal, Amman is also home to several legends and mysteries. The most famous is perhaps the legend of the Jinn of Amman Citadel. Local folklore speaks of mysterious creatures that are said to haunt the ancient ruins after sunset. These tales add an air of mystery to Amman’s cinematic locations, sparking the imagination of storytellers and visitors alike.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Amman

While Amman’s popular landmarks are frequently featured in films, there are also several hidden gems that have served as unique filming locations:

1. “The King Hussein Mosque” – This modern mosque is a symbol of Jordan’s Islamic heritage and has been featured in several local films.
2. “Darat al Funun” – This art house and gallery located in Jabal Weibdeh has been a filming location for numerous Jordanian films and music videos.
3. “Jabal al-Qal’a” – Also known as the Amman Citadel, this historic site offers panoramic views of Amman and has been used as a filming location for many local productions.

These lesser-known locations offer unique perspectives of Amman, showcasing the city’s diverse landscapes and architecture.

What to Pack for a Trip to Amman

When packing for a trip to Amman, it’s essential to consider the city’s climate and culture. Here are some must-haves:

1. Comfortable footwear – The city’s hilly terrain requires comfortable walking shoes.
2. Modest clothing – Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, and modest dress is appreciated.
3. Sunscreen and hat – The sun can be quite strong, especially during the summer.
4. Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories.
5. Travel guide and map – To help navigate the city and find those hidden gems.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Amman

Navigating Amman is relatively easy, thanks to its extensive public transportation system. Here are some tips:

Taxis – Taxis are an affordable and convenient way to get around. Make sure the meter is running to avoid overpaying.

Buses – Public buses cover most areas of the city and are a cheap option for getting around.

Rental Car – If you plan to visit places outside Amman, renting a car might be a good option. However, be prepared for heavy traffic in the city.

Ride-hailing Apps – Services like Uber and Careem operate in Amman and are a convenient option for getting around the city.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Amman

When planning your trip to Amman, ensure you have the following documents:

1. Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from Jordan.
2. Visa – Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. Check the Jordan Embassy or Consulate website in your country for detailed information.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, along with your valid driver’s license.

Conclusion: Unveiling the Cinematic Charm of Amman

From its historic landmarks to its modern cityscape, Amman offers a cinematic journey unlike any other. Whether you’re a cinema enthusiast, a bibliophile, or simply a traveler seeking unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Amman’s cinematic landscape. Embark on your journey through Amman’s famous films, TV shows, books, and discover the hidden gems that make this city a filmmaker’s paradise. Happy travels!