Jordan is an Arab country in the Middle East bordered by Israel, Iraq, Syria, and Saudi Arabia With a history that spans over 10,000 years and a vibrant culture, Jordan is an exciting destination for travelers the world over. While it is best known for its stunning nature and heritage sites like Petra, Jerash, and the Dead Sea, there is much more to explore in this fascinating country. Here are five interesting essay topic ideas about Jordan that are sure to pique your interest.
1. Historical Sites: Jordan is home to several cultural and historical sites of immense international importance, such as the ancient city of Petra, once the capital of the Nabataean kingdom. Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its intricate and breathtaking architecture, carved directly into the red-hued sandstone cliffs. Other remarkable historical sights include Jerash, the “Pompeii of the Middle East,” and Umm Qais, a small village with views of the Golan Heights, the Sea of Galilee, and parts of Syria and Lebanon.
2. Jordan’s Bedouin Culture: An essential part of Jordan’s culture, Bedouins are nomadic desert people who are deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture. Many Bedouin tribes still remain in Jordan, living and traveling in their traditional manner. Tourists can experience traditional Bedouin life by venturing into the desert for a camping trip or a fascinating jeep safari.
3. The Hashemite Kingdom: Jordan is an absolute monarchy ruled by King Abdullah II, who is head of the Hashemite Kingdom. Historically, the Hashemite dynasty was chosen by the British after World War I to not only rule Jordan, but also Iraq. This dynasty has been in power since 1921, making it the longest-serving monarchy in the Middle East. King Abdullah has cultivated strong international relations and modernized the country while still respecting its traditions.
4. Jordan’s Natural Beauty: Outside of its cultural and historical sights, Jordan is well known for its stunning nature. Around the country, visitors can find the unique desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, a sea of sand dunes, and the Dead Sea, the world’s lowest point on land that is famous for its therapeutic properties. Nature lovers can also explore the dramatic canyons, gorges, and oases of Dana Biosphere Reserve, the country’s most biologically diverse nature reserve.
5. Jordan’s Cuisine: Jordan is home to a unique culinary tradition that has been cultivated for centuries, melding flavors from all over the Middle East with regional specialties. Popular dishes include falafel, hummus, and baba ganoush, as well as tabbouleh, a refreshing blend of parsley, tomato, and cracked wheat. Jordanians also enjoy dishes such as mansaf, a rice dish cooked with lamb and yogurt, or makloubeh, a rice and eggplant dish often cooked with chicken. These dishes are usually cooked in a taboon, the local oven.
These are just five interesting essay topic ideas about Jordan. From the country’s historical and cultural sights to its unique cuisine, there is no shortage of fascinating things to explore in this remarkable destination.