From the ancient city of Gerasa. Now known as Jerash, this popular tourist destination is considered to have the best Roman ruins outside of Italy.

Walking through Jerash is like walking back in time. We entered through the large South Gate which was built in 130 CE. Then, we made our way to the colonnaded street. Similar to Umm Qais, the colonnaded street in Jerash has its original pavement with tracks from chariot wheels.

As we made our way through the ruins, I was most impressed by the 2 large temples and the massive forum. Jerash reminded me of my recent trip to Rome. It really made me understand how far the Roman Empire stretched.

Another highlight to visiting Jerash is the Roman Army and Chariot Experience. This is a show that takes place in the same hippodrome used during the Roman Era. At that time, the hippodrome, or stadium, could fit approximately 15,000 people. Today, the seats are the same ones used almost 2,000 years ago.

The show included members of the Roman army, called legionaries. The soldiers demonstrated fighting styles and weapons. As part of the fun, Adam was able to put on the armor of a Roman legionary for the afternoon.

The army was followed by a gladiator battle and a chariot race. At the end of the 45-minute show, I got to take a lap around the hippodrome on a chariot!

Copyright © 2009 ProjectExplorer, LTD. All Rights Reserved.