The capital of Jordan, known in the present day as Amman, was historically referred to by different names throughout various epochs. Understanding these historical names provides valuable insight into the rich and complex past of this city.
Ancient and Classical Periods
1. Rabbath Ammon:
The earliest recorded name of Amman is “Rabbath Ammon” or “Rabbat Ammon,” which translates to “The Great City of the Ammonites.” This name hails from the Iron Age when the city was a prominent center of the Ammonite civilization, which was one of the several Semitic-speaking peoples inhabiting the region east of the Jordan River. The Ammonites were known for their fortified cities and their rivalry with neighboring states. Rabbath Ammon served as a significant urban hub within the Ammonite kingdom, which was a noteworthy entity in the ancient Near East.
2. Philadelphia:
Following the conquest of the region by the Greeks, the city underwent a transformation and was known as “Philadelphia.” This name change occurred during the Hellenistic period, particularly under the rule of Ptolemy II Philadelphus, a ruler of the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt. The name “Philadelphia” means “City of Brotherly Love,” and it was part of the broader Greco-Roman tradition of renaming cities to honor rulers or important figures. During this era, the city was developed further and incorporated into the Hellenistic cultural and political sphere, reflecting the influence of Greek civilization in the region.
Roman and Byzantine Periods
1. Philadelphia Under Roman Rule:
As the Roman Empire expanded, the city continued to be known as Philadelphia, and it became an integral part of the Roman province of Arabia Petraea. The city enjoyed the benefits of Roman urban planning and infrastructure, including the construction of baths, theaters, and a forum. Roman administration and military presence significantly influenced the city’s development, and it became a vibrant urban center within the Roman Empire.
2. Byzantine Influence:
During the Byzantine period, Philadelphia retained its name but underwent further changes. The city continued to be a notable center of Christianity, reflecting the Byzantine Empire’s religious orientation. The local Christian community played an essential role in the city’s cultural and religious life, and the city became a significant center for ecclesiastical affairs.
Islamic Period and Beyond
1. The Islamic Conquest:
With the advent of the Islamic period, Philadelphia, like many other ancient cities, experienced a shift in its significance and administration. The city’s historical name fell into disuse, and the Islamic period saw the introduction of new administrative structures and cultural influences. Although the specific name Philadelphia was no longer used, the city continued to be an important settlement in the region.
2. The Mamluk and Ottoman Periods:
Throughout the Mamluk and Ottoman periods, the city was known primarily by its Arabic name, Amman. During these times, Amman served as a relatively modest town compared to its ancient grandeur but still maintained its role as a local administrative and trade center. The name “Amman” itself derives from the historical name Rabbath Ammon, reflecting the continuity of the city’s ancient heritage. The Mamluk and Ottoman eras saw various administrative changes and developments, contributing to the city’s growth and transformation.
Modern Era and Independence
1. The 20th Century:
In the early 20th century, with the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the subsequent geopolitical changes in the Middle East, Amman gained prominence as the capital of the newly established Emirate of Transjordan. The city was officially named Amman, reflecting its historical legacy and the evolving national identity. The establishment of the Emirate, and later the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, saw Amman emerge as a modern and rapidly developing capital, embodying both historical continuity and contemporary progress.
2. Present Day:
Today, Amman stands as the vibrant and bustling capital of Jordan, a city that blends its ancient heritage with modernity. Its historical names, from Rabbath Ammon and Philadelphia to its current designation, reflect the rich and diverse history that has shaped its development over millennia. As Jordan’s political, cultural, and economic center, Amman continues to be a significant city in the region, bridging the ancient past with the dynamic present.