Hammamat Ma'in, Jordan

Hammamat Ma'in (also called Zarqa Ma'in) is a series of natural hot springs and waterfalls with biblical connections, located between Madaba and the Dead Sea in Jordan.

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In the Bible

King Herod frequented the healing springs at Ma'in (when these waters were known as Baaras) and built a villa at nearby Mukawer. According to tradition, it was at that villa that Salome danced and John the Baptist was beheaded (Matthew 14: 1-12).

What to See at Hammamat Ma'in

The springs still run hot today and the site is now home to a modern spa resort, which provides a full range of spa services. For non-guests, there is an day-use fee to enter the complex.

The main waterfall, which gushes over a cliff beneath the resort, ranges in temperature from 40° to 60° C (104-140° F). This is the most popular spot and is often full of families and young people enjoying the waters, in attire ranging from fully-veiled robes to modern western swimsuits. Visitors should respect the more traditional bathers and leave the stringiest bikinis at home. There are hot pools and several smaller falls nearby as well.

About 6km after the turnoff for Hammamat Ma'in is the impressive Al Megheirat dolmen field, with hundreds of dolmens (prehistoric chamber tombs) scattered across several hillsides.

Getting There

Hammamat Ma'in is reached by one of the windiest roads in the country, about a 20-minute drive southwest from Madaba towards the Dead Sea.

Getting There

Hammamat Ma'in is reached by one of the windiest roads in the country, about a 20-minute drive southwest from Madaba towards the Dead Sea.

Quick Facts on Hammamat Ma'in

Site Information
Names:Hammamat Ma'in · Zarqa Ma'in
Categories:biblical sites; megalithic monuments
Visitor and Contact Information
Coordinates:31.609031° N, 35.608900° E
Address:Jordan
Lodging:View hotels near Hammamat Ma'in
Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

References

  1. Sue Rollin and Jane Streetly, Blue Guide Jordan, 3rd ed. (London: A&C Black, 2001), 189-90.
  2. Hammamat Ma'in - Rough Guide to Jordan

More Information

© Sean Long
© Sean Long
© Sean Long

Map of Hammamat Ma'in, Jordan

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