Political Overview
Jordan is a constitutional monarchy headed by King Abdullah II, whose reign since 1999 has been marked by efforts to balance traditional governance with modernization initiatives. The country’s political system features a bicameral National Assembly, comprising the Senate (appointed by the King) and the House of Representatives (elected every four years). Amman, the capital city, serves as both the political heart and the administrative hub, hosting royal palaces, government ministries, and diplomatic missions. Over recent decades, Jordan has maintained relative stability in a turbulent region by pursuing cautious foreign policies, fostering relations with Western allies, and advocating for regional peace efforts.
Cultural Heritage and Identity
Jordan’s rich cultural tapestry reflects millennia of civilizations, from the Nabataeans to the Ottomans. The nation takes great pride in its Bedouin traditions characterized by hospitality, oral poetry, and desert customs while its urban centers echo Arab and Islamic architectural legacies. The ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as the country’s premier tourism area, drawing visitors worldwide to marvel at its rock-cut façades and archaeological wonders. Jordanian identity today is reinforced through national festivals, traditional music (such as the dabke dance), and a thriving culinary scene centered around dishes like mansaf and maqluba.
Geographical Landscape, Area and Climate
Spanning approximately 89,342 km², Jordan’s terrain ranges from the fertile highlands of the west to the arid deserts of the east. The Jordan Rift Valley cuts through the country’s western edge, giving rise to the Dead Sea the Earth’s lowest point on land celebrated globally for its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic mud. The climate varies from Mediterranean in the highlands (with cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers) to desert conditions in the south and east, where daytime temperatures can soar above 40 °C. This diverse geography not only supports varied ecosystems but also underpins Jordan’s reputation as a destination for both historical exploration and eco‑tourism.
