Explore mesmerising Jordan before the crowds return; this safe country is a historian's delight. Weaving stories of Lawrence of Arabia’s exploits in Jordan with exploration of the country’s trove of archaeological gems, archaeologist Neil Faulkner’s lectures will add a unique depth of understanding. Visit Amman and the extensive Roman ruins of Jerash, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman provincial towns, with colonnaded avenues revealed after being covered for centuries by sand. Drive south along the Kings’ Highway to the Christian community of Madaba, famous for its Byzantine mosaics, including a 6th century map.

Also see the former crusader stronghold of Kerak, the scene of legendary battles between the Crusaders and the armies of Saladin. Explore the incredible Nabatean sites of Petra and Little Petra, one of the “new seven wonders of the world”. Reached through a narrow sandstone Siq, the jaw-dropping rock-cut houses, temples and famous treasury building feature ornate capitals and pediments which still look sharply-engraved after 2,000 years. Leaving Petra, travel over the Ras el Negev into the dramatic desert scenery of Wadi Rum to look for prehistoric rock engravings by 4x4. It is in this region that Lawrence’s desert exploits come to the fore, starting with a visit to Aqaba, which he famously captured against the odds.

A highlight of the tour will be a 4x4 journey to the former Hijaz Railway, frequently sabotaged by Lawrence, and an evocative a Bedouin lunch in the desert. With Dr Faulkner on hand to bring T E Lawrence’s story to life, discover fascinating WWI sites such as the remote Tooth Hill Camp and Tell Shahm Fort. Complete the story of Jordan’s rich history with the incredible Umayyad Desert Castles of Qasr al Karraneh and Qasr al-Hallabat and Shomari Wildlife Reserve.

Highlights:

• Uncover the history of Lawrence of Arabia in Jordan, going offroad to reach remote sites which were pivotal to his campaigns 
• Explore the wonderous Nabatean sites of Petra and Little Petra, reached through a narrow sandstone Siq, with ornate temples and tombs carved out of the rose-red rockface 
• Visit Amman’s magnificent classical theatre and the extensive Roman ruins of Jerash, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman provincial towns, with evocative colonnaded streets 
• See the famous Byzantine map at Madaba and the former Crusader stronghold of Kerak, the scene of legendary battles between the Crusaders and the armies of Saladin

ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY
ACTIVITY LEVEL: MEDIUM