Tafilah, Jordan: The Kingdom of Edom and Gate to Hot Springs

Overview of Tafilah Governorate

Tafilah is one of Jordan's governorates, located in the south of the Kingdom, and is sometimes known as "Al-Tafilah Al-Hashimiyyah". It is bordered by Karak Governorate to the north, Ma'an Governorate to the south and east, and Wadi Araba and the Dead Sea to the west.
Tafilah is noted for its historically important location, having been part of the ancient Kingdom of Edom, and later an important stronghold for the Nabataeans and Romans. It is also home to rare Juniper forests and significant nature reserves.
Tafilah played a prominent role in the Great Arab Revolt, hosting the famous Battle of Tafilah in 1918 where the Arab Army, led by Prince Zeid bin Hussein, was victorious over the Ottoman forces.

Geographical Location

Tafilah Governorate is situated in the southwestern part of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, approximately 183 km south of the capital, Amman. It is characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain that slopes sharply westwards towards Wadi Araba.

Administrative Division of Tafilah Governorate

Tafilah Governorate is administratively divided into three main districts (Liwa's):

1) Al-Qasaba District of Tafilah (The Center)

Includes the governorate center and its subordinate towns and villages:

Center and Main Towns: Tafilah, Aima, Al-Ays, Ain Al-Bayda, Al-Hasa, Gharandil.
Villages and Areas:
- Barqash, Al-Bustan, Al-Sawan, Wadi Zaid, Irhab, Deir Al-Samadiyya, Al-Baqi', Al-Sawaqa, Busaira (Old Center), Dana, Al-Qadisiyyah, Wadi Finan, An-Namata.

2) Busaira District (Liwa Busaira)

This district includes areas considered the historical center of the Kingdom of Edom:

Main Town: Busaira.
Villages and Areas:
- Al-Qadisiyyah, Dana, An-Namata, Al-Sawaqa, Rawdat Prince Ali, Al-Rashadiyya.

3) Al-Hasa District (Liwa Al-Hasa)

This district covers areas located along the Desert Highway and the southern regions:

Main Town: Al-Hasa.
Villages and Areas:
- Al-Muraygha, Ash-Sharah, Jurf Al-Darawish, Al-Gharandal, Al-Faysaliyyah.

Climate and Weather of Tafilah: Cold Southern Mountains and Hot Valleys

Tafilah experiences a sharp and remarkable climatic diversity. The high ground falls under the Cold Southern Mountain Climate, while its western valleys descend into the Hot, Arid Wadi Araba Climate. The climate is relatively cool in summer and very cold in winter, with many areas (especially the highlands) receiving heavy snowfall, contributing to underground water reserves. The region is also famous for its therapeutic hot mineral springs with high temperatures year-round.

Landmarks and Sites of Tafilah: Edomite History and Natural Wonders

Tafilah uniquely blends the ancient historical evidence of the Nabataean kingdoms with stunning natural valleys and healing thermal springs.

1. Main Archaeological and Historical Sites

Busaira (Bozrah)

Busaira was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Edom, which flourished in the second millennium BC. Today, it is a significant archaeological site featuring the remains of royal palaces, temples, and massive fortifications, standing as a testament to the civilizations that preceded the Nabataeans.

Al-Hasa Castle

A historic castle located on the Desert Highway, it was an important station on the old Syrian Hajj route, dating back to the Mamluk or Ottoman periods.

Gharandal (Ayn Gharandal)

An important archaeological site dating back to the Roman era, believed to have been a camp for a Roman military unit. It contains architectural remains and Byzantine churches.

Other Archaeological Sites

Sela' Castle (Qal'at Sela'): An ancient hill fort dating back to the Nabataean period, noted for its strategic elevated position.
Khirbat An-Namata: A historic site featuring the remains of ancient dams and structures from the Nabataean and Roman periods.
Tell Shira: An archaeological mound overlooking Wadi Al-Hasa, revealing ancient settlement phases.

2. Natural Sites and Reserves

Tafilah is famous for its valleys, hot springs, and unique vegetation cover:

Afra Hot Springs and Barbeita Springs: Considered major destinations for therapeutic tourism in Jordan. The hot waters (up to 45-55°C) emerge from the rocks, rich in sulfur and minerals used for treating skin and joint conditions.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: A large portion lies within Tafilah's borders. It is the largest nature reserve in Jordan, characterized by immense biodiversity spanning four bio-geographical zones (Mediterranean, Sudanian, Irano-Turanian, and Saharo-Arabian).
Juniper Forests: Tafilah's highlands, particularly the Al-Qadisiyyah area, are known for dense, ancient, and rare Juniper forests, giving the area a unique mountainous character.
Wadi Al-Hasa: One of the most beautiful valleys in Jordan, known for its permanent water flow, making it a popular destination for hiking and nature adventures.

3. Religious Sites

Shrine of Al-Harith bin Umayr Al-Azdi: A revered companion of the Prophet Muhammad who was killed by Shurahbil bin Amr Al-Ghassani. His shrine is located in Tafilah.

Jordanian Cuisine in the South: Tafilah's Edami and Bedouin Dishes

The cuisine of Tafilah, typical of the south, is simple, relying on grains, meat, and traditional Bedouin dairy products (like Jameed).

I. Main and Popular Dishes

Southern Mansaf (Karak/Tafilah Style): The signature dish, cooked with lamb (or veal) and generously soaked in thick, salted Jameed (dried yogurt), served over white rice and Shrak bread. It symbolizes hospitality and generosity.
Al-Khubziyya (Al-Matahen): A dish similar to the northern Makmoura, but often lighter, consisting of meat and onions cooked inside dough.
Al-Labaniyyeh: A dish of meat (usually lamb) cooked in Jameed or plain cooked yogurt, served with rice or bread.
Al-Rushouf: A hearty winter soup made from crushed wheat (Jreesheh), lentils, and cooked yogurt—a common dish in all cold regions of Jordan.

Appetizers and Daily Meals

Al-Mathrooda: Bread (usually Shrak or Taboon bread) that is crumbled and soaked in meat broth, clarified butter (Samen Baladi), or yogurt. A quick and satisfying meal.
Galayet Bandora: Fried and stewed tomatoes with onions, garlic, and olive oil.
Hummus and Ful Medames: Essential breakfast items and common appetizers.

II. Baked Goods and Sweets

Shrak/Taboon Bread: The staple bread accompanying all meals, used in Mansaf and Mathrooda.
Sweets: Tafilah shares commonalities with general Jordanian sweets like Baklava and Knafeh. Regional sweets often rely on clarified butter and molasses (dibs).

Area and Population of Tafilah Governorate

Tafilah is a medium-sized governorate in terms of area but is one of the least densely populated due to its rugged terrain and desert areas bordering the Badia. According to recent estimates:

Population: Estimated at approximately 115,000 inhabitants (2023/2024 estimates).
Area: Covers approximately (2,209 km²) (853 mi²).
Population Density: Relatively low compared to the northern governorates.

Summary: Tafilah - Guardian of the Edomite Legacy and Springs of Healing

Tafilah uniquely blends its deep history (Capital of Edom), enchanting nature (Dana Reserve and Juniper Forests), and therapeutic destinations (Afra Hot Springs), making it a culturally and environmentally vital destination in Southern Jordan.

Keywords:
Tafilah Al-Hashimiyyah, Tafilah Jordan, Afra Hot Springs, Busaira, Dana Reserve, Liwa Busaira, Al-Hasa Castle, Southern Mansaf, Wadi Al-Hasa, Juniper Forests, Nabataeans, Great Arab Revolt.

This page has been viewed 10689 times

0 comments

Be the first to comment on this topic!

Looking for help or more details? Get in touch!