The King’s Highway is one of the oldest continuously used routes in the world, stretching approximately 280 kilometers from northern to southern Jordan. More than a mere roadway, this ancient path—traveled for over 4,000 years—once connected the fertile Levant with the empire of the Pharaohs. It has witnessed the passage of countless civilizations and pivotal historical events, leaving an enduring imprint on the landscape.

Its significance is noted in ancient texts, including biblical narratives, marking it as a corridor of immense value for historians, travelers, and those drawn to the layered history of the region.

A Pathway of History and Exchange

Since antiquity, the King’s Highway has served as a vital commercial artery linking Egypt with Mesopotamia. Merchant caravans, military expeditions, and travelers have traversed its length for millennia, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural encounters, trade, and historical legacies along its course.

In biblical accounts, this route appears in several episodes. One of the most notable involves Moses and the Israelites, who, during their journey toward the so-called Promised Land, requested passage through Edomite territory via this road. The king of Edom refused, forcing them to seek an alternate route. This episode, recorded in the Book of Numbers, highlights the highway’s role within the broader narrative of ancient migrations and territorial dynamics.

Echoes of Antiquity Along the Route

The King’s Highway passes through numerous sites that evoke echoes of ancient history. In Madaba, known as the “City of Mosaics,” visitors encounter the famous 6th-century mosaic map depicting the Levant in remarkable detail. Housed in the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George, this artifact is the oldest surviving cartographic representation of the region and offers valuable insights into the geography of the ancient world.

(Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George in Madaba; Photo credit: Fadi Amirah)

Another significant site is Mount Nebo. According to biblical tradition, it was from this summit that Moses viewed the lands beyond the Jordan River before his death. Today, Mount Nebo offers sweeping panoramas of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and, on clear days, even Jerusalem. The historical symbolism of this vantage point makes it a compelling stop for many travelers.

Karak is yet another key destination along the highway. This city, dominated by an imposing Crusader fortress, is historically linked to the ancient kingdom of Moab. The Mesha Stele, discovered in the region, records the victories of King Mesha of Moab, a figure mentioned in the Second Book of Kings. This inscription offers rare insight into the region’s political and military history during the 9th century BCE.

(Panoramic view of Karak Crusader Fortress)

A Route Shaped by Empires

Across the centuries, the King’s Highway has evolved under the influence of various civilizations. During the Roman period, it was reconstructed and renamed Via Traiana Nova by Emperor Trajan in 106 CE, reinforcing its role as a key route for trade, military logistics, and imperial administration. Before the Persian invasion under Khosrow II, the highway was one of the most frequented pilgrimage routes in the Christian world.

In the medieval era, the route gained renewed strategic importance during the Crusades, with fortresses like Karak built to secure control over the region. Under Islamic rule, the highway continued to serve as a critical thoroughfare, and in modern times, it has been adapted for vehicular travel, all while preserving its historical character embedded in the landscape.

A Unique Experience in Jordan

Traveling the King’s Highway today is an immersive journey through Jordan’s rich historical and cultural landscapes. The route winds through dramatic scenery, from arid mountains to fertile valleys, revealing remnants of ancient civilizations at every turn. For those interested in ancient history, archaeology, or the stark beauty of Jordan’s desert, the King’s Highway offers an unparalleled experience.

This is not merely a road—it is a living testament to the passage of time, the aspirations of countless generations, and the enduring connections between cultures. Along every stretch, the echoes of the past resonate, inviting travelers to uncover the stories and secrets that have endured across millennia.