Umm Qais

Umm Qais, the ancient Roman Gadara, lies fifty kilometers north of Jerash. From its location on a fertile hillside, the ancient city overlooks Lake Tiberias, the Yarmouk River and the hot springs of Hammeh. Umm Qais, site of the famous Gadarene swine, was renowned in its time as a cultural center. Home to several classical poets and philosophers, it was often called a new Athens. Stroll through history as you walk down Umm Qais’ colonnaded street and spend some time relaxing at the West Theater, which is constructed entirely of black basalt and commands a great view over the Jordan Valley. The North Mausoleum is almost entirely intact and contains a stone inscription near the great crypt which reads: ’ To you I say, passer by As you are, I was.  As I am, you will be.  Use well life as a mortal.