Mount Nebo

Mount Nebo is the ridge in Madaba Governorate where, according to Deuteronomy, Moses looked out over the Promised Land before he died. It rises about 700 metres above sea level, and from its summit the view drops away over the Jordan Valley towards the West Bank. Jericho is usually visible, and on a very clear day you can make out Jerusalem on the horizon, while Jordan's tourism board notes that the Dead Sea is visible too.

The focus of the site is the Memorial Church of Moses, a Byzantine basilica first built in the second half of the fourth century to commemorate his death. Excavations began in 1933, and a new shelter over the church reopened on 15 October 2016, protecting the Byzantine mosaic floors inside. Outside, the Brazen Serpent sculpture by the Italian artist Gian Paolo Fantoni stands near the viewpoint, combining the bronze serpent of the Book of Numbers with the cross of Jesus. Pope John Paul II visited in 2000 and planted an olive tree, and Pope Benedict XVI came in 2009.

Mount Nebo suits pilgrims, history lovers and anyone who wants one of the classic views in Jordan. A visit takes around an hour, including the church, the mosaics and time at the viewpoint. Haze can limit the view in summer, so mornings after rain or clear winter days are best for distant views. Dress modestly, since the church is a place of worship, and bring a layer, as the hilltop can be windy.

The site is a short drive from Madaba and usually combined with the Madaba Map on the same trip. Nearby, the La Storia museum presents biblical-era scenes with sculptures, and the road continues down towards the Dead Sea and the Baptism Site, making it easy to build a full day out from Amman. Most visitors come by taxi, private driver or organised tour.

The biblical town of Nebo, at Khirbet al-Mukhayyat, lies about 3.5 kilometres away for those who want to explore further. Allow time to walk slowly around the church to look at the mosaic details, and to sit at the viewpoint while the light changes over the valley.