Amman/ Qasr Mshatta
Known since Biblical times, Amman was a major city during Classical and late antiquity but fell into decline after the capital of the Muslim world was moved from nearby Damascus to Baghdad. Today it is the largest city, capital and economic hub of Jordan.Not far from Amman, there is a group of castles and fortresses scattered over the desert. They were built in the 7th and 8th century under the caliphs of the Umayyad dynasty and represent some of the most impressive examples of early Islamic art and Islamic architecture. The largest and most ambitious of the palaces is Qasr Al-Mushatta ("Winter Palace").
An Overwhelming Umayyad Masterpiece
Mshatta Façade
The facade of an unfinished palace near Amman is the greatest example of early Islamic architecture. It’s carved all over with scenes of paradise, done in incredible detail – vines, birds, griffins and centaurs, cattle and lions living in harmony…▶The Museum of Islamic Art, Berlin
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