Baptism Site "Bethany Beyond the Jordan" (Al-Maghtas)
المغطس
A World Heritage Site traditionally identified as 'Bethany beyond the Jordan', where Jesus is said to have been baptized. Byzantine church ruins and a path down to the river can be seen.
The Baptism Site lies on the east bank of the Jordan River, about 9 km north of the Dead Sea, and was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2015. The site includes Byzantine churches, baptismal pools and monks' cave remains around Tell Elias and the spring of John the Baptist, and the archaeological finds confirm the tradition of early Christian pilgrimage.
Visitors must enter together with the site's shuttle bus and a guide. Follow the wooden walkway to the spot where John baptized, then continue to the Jordan River. Across the river is Qasr al-Yahud, on the Israeli/Palestinian side.
Admission is about 12 Jordanian dinars (included in the Jordan Pass). The site generally opens at 8:00, with last entry at 16:00 in winter and 18:00 in summer. Dress must cover shoulders and knees.
It is about 1 hour's drive from Amman and is often combined with Mount Nebo, Madaba and the Dead Sea in a day trip.
Opening hours
Daily 08:00–16:00 (extended to 18:00 in summer; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Mount Nebo
- Iraq al-Amir & Qasr al-Abd
- As-Salt Old Town
- Madaba Map (St. George's Church)
- Royal Automobile Museum
- Royal Tank Museum
- King Abdullah I Mosque
- Rainbow Street