Loading ...Al-Husn: The Lost City of the Sun
Yara Marei / Arab America Contributing Writer
The golden sun rises over the rolling hills of northern Jordan, casting its first rays upon the ancient town of Al-Husn. For thousands of years, this land has whispered the stories of those who built, defended, and nurtured it. Some say it was once known as Dion, a city of the Decapolis, while others believe it to be the lost “City of the Sun,” a beacon of civilization and faith. Its stone walls have stood through the ages, sheltering warriors, scholars, and visionaries who shaped Jordan and the broader Arab world. let’s visit together with Yara Marei, Arab America Contributing Writer.
Al-Husn is more than just a town; it is a living testament to history, from the days of early Christianity to its role in the Arab Renaissance, its legacy weaves through time like the warm desert wind. Here, Muslims and Christians have long lived side by side, sharing traditions, forging alliances, and preserving a heritage that refuses to be forgotten.
As we journey through the annals of Al-Husn’s past, we uncover the echoes of ancient citadels, the wisdom of scholars, and the resilience of a people whose spirit remains unbroken. This is the story of Al-Husn, the lost city, the city of the sun, and a town that refuses to fade into history.
Al-Husn: The Protected and the Protector
Al-Husn, meaning “The Fortress” in Arabic, is a historic town in northern Jordan, located just south of Irbid. Its name reflects both its defensive strength and protective role throughout history. Situated on an elevated plateau in the fertile Hauran plains, Al-Husn has been continuously inhabited for over 5,000 years, witnessing the rise and fall of great civilizations. Given the vast flatlands surrounding it, a fortified stronghold was essential for defense. The town is protected by a prominent hill, which to this day remains a mystery, scholars and historians still debate whether it was naturally formed or constructed by human hands.
The town of Al-Husn, located southeast of Irbid in northern Jordan, is a place of rich history and deep cultural heritage. Its origins trace back over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the region. The town’s name, “Al-Husn,” meaning “fortress,” reflects its historical significance as a fortified settlement that has witnessed the rise and fall of many civilizations.
Historical Significance
Al-Husn has played an essential role throughout history, from the early Bronze Age to the Roman and Byzantine eras, as evidenced by archaeological findings such as coins, inscriptions, and ancient tombs. It is believed to have been part of the Decapolis, a group of ten ancient Roman cities that served as commercial and military hubs in the region. Some sources suggest that Al-Husn was historically known as Dion or Hippos, meaning “City of the Sun.” It was strategically located along trade and military routes, making it a center for commerce and cultural exchange.
During the Ottoman period, Al-Husn continued to be an important town, with its leaders playing significant roles in governance. In 1774, Ahmad bin Zahir al-Umar al-Zaydani, a key historical figure, built a fortress in Al-Husn as part of his regional expansion efforts. Later, in the early 20th century, Al-Husn became a political and intellectual hub, with influential figures such as Aqla Basha Nusseir and Mahmoud Basha Al-Fneish participating in legislative councils and shaping Jordan’s early governance.
Known as the “City of the Sun” or the “Lost City,” Al-Husn stands on a man-made elevated plateau in the fertile plains of Hauran. This plateau has witnessed civilizations dating back over 3,500 years before Christ. The town’s historical significance became more pronounced in 1775, during the rule of Daher Al-Omar, who extended his control to parts of Jordan. His successor, Ahmad Al-Zaydani, fortified Al-Husn by building a wall around its citadel, making it a center of governance.
Al-Husn was not just a witness to history; it was an active participant. The town played a role in the Arab Renaissance, and its leaders, like Sheikh Mahmoud Al-Fnaish Nasirat, contributed to the Arab independence movement. He participated in the inauguration of King of King Faisal I in Damascus in 1920, demonstrating Al-Husn’s integral place in regional politics.
Al-Husn and the Decapolis Connection
Al-Husn may have been part of the Decapolis, a group of ten Greco-Roman cities in the region. Its historical name, Dion or Hippon, meaning “City of the Sun,” suggests its connection to these ancient urban centers. Nearby Decapolis cities include Arbila (now Irbid), Capitolias (now Beit Ras), and Pella (Tabqat Fahl), all within close proximity to Al-Husn.
The Roman Lake of Al-Hosn
The Roman Lake of Al-Husn, an ancient water reservoir, stands as a testament to the region’s deep-rooted history and strategic significance. Historically, Al-Husn was part of the Decapolis, a group of ten Greco-Roman cities that thrived as centers of trade and culture. The lake played a vital role in sustaining the local population, serving as a crucial water source for centuries. It also functioned as a key stop for travelers, including pilgrims journeying to Mecca, who would rest and refill their water supplies. Over time, the lake supported agriculture, fostering the growth of medicinal herbs such as coriander and gundelia. Although its significance has faded in recent decades, the remnants of this historical reservoir highlight the ingenuity of past civilizations in managing water resources and sustaining life in the region.
A Land of Culture and Agriculture
With a history spanning over 5,000 years, Al-Husn is not just a historic settlement but a cultural landmark. It boasts a vast expanse of 60,000 dunums of agricultural land, making it a crucial agricultural hub throughout history. The Al-Huson Roman Reservoir has supported agriculture for many years. It provides water for plants like coriander and gundelia, which grow near its banks.
Coriander thrives in the moist soil around the reservoir. Farmers and families grow it for its fresh leaves and dried seeds, which they use in cooking. The water from the reservoir helps it grow well every season. Gundelia, a wild plant, grows in the rocky areas nearby. People collect it in early spring and use it in traditional dishes. It takes time to clean and prepare, but it is a favorite food in the region. The Al-Huson Roman Reservoir is not just an old water source. It still helps farmers and keeps local traditions alive.
Al-Husn and Early Christianity
Christianity has deep roots in Al-Husn. The faith was introduced to the region around 33 AD during the Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon Christ’s disciples. After the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 AD, many early Christians sought refuge in Pella, now in Jordan. Some historians believe Al-Husn may have been one of the lost Decapolis cities, formerly known as Dion.
A Model of Coexistence
Al-Husn, home to 100 tribes, including 25 Eastern Christian tribes who follow the Patriarch of Jerusalem, has long stood as a beacon of religious and social harmony. For generations, Muslims and Christians have lived side by side in mutual respect, reflecting Jordan’s deep-rooted tradition of coexistence. This spirit of unity is woven into the town’s identity, shaping a vibrant community that values diversity and collective progress.
As Jordan embarks on its second century, Al-Husn continues to uphold its rich cultural heritage while embracing the opportunities of the future. Its legacy of harmony serves as a testament to the strength found in diversity, reinforcing the town’s role in shaping a prosperous and inclusive society.
Al-Husn’s Contribution to Academia
Al-Husn has long been a center for education and culture in its main church. Schools have existed there since the early 1900s, with both Muslim and Christian students attending. By 1902, there were already 210 female students, a remarkable number given the Ottoman restrictions on male education at the time. Over the years, Al-Husn became known for producing high-achieving graduates, some of whom ranked among the top students in Jordan.
Al-Husn has produced some of Jordan’s most distinguished scholars. One of its most notable figures, Dr. Aqil Abu Al-Shaar, was the first Jordanian to earn a doctorate, obtaining his degree from Italy. He later served as the Foreign Minister of the Dominican Republic, showcasing the global impact of Al-Husn’s intellectuals.
The Meuseum of Al-Husn
The Museum of Old Agricultural Equipment in Al-Husn is a unique cultural landmark that showcases the town’s rich agricultural heritage. Founded by Samih Hatamleh, a passionate historian and collector, the museum preserves and displays a variety of traditional farming tools that were once essential to daily life, offering visitors a glimpse into the agricultural practices of past generations. Samih Hatamleh, who grew up watching his father and grandfather work the land, was inspired to collect and restore these tools as a way of honoring their legacy.
Over the years, he carefully gathered handcrafted plows, wooden carts, water wheels, grain mills, and olive presses, reflecting the deep connection between the people of Al-Husn and their land. The museum also highlights ancient irrigation techniques, seasonal harvesting methods, and the role of agriculture in sustaining local communities. Through these artifacts, the museum serves as an educational center, allowing younger generations to appreciate their ancestors’ hard work and ingenuity while keeping the town’s agricultural legacy alive.
The Everlasting Spirit of Al-Husn
Al-Husn continues to be a place where history meets the present. From its deep-rooted traditions to its contributions to Jordanian society, Al-Husn remains a symbol of endurance and cultural wealth. As the town moves forward, it carries the legacy of its ancestors, ensuring that its history remains alive for generations to come.
Today, Al-Husn is a vibrant city with around 40,000 residents, preserving its deep cultural and historical roots. Its historic fortress, stone-built houses, and ancient ruins stand as reminders of its glorious past. The town continues to be a hub of education, culture, and social cohesion, reflecting the resilience and unity of its people.
The legacy of Al-Husn is not only in its historical landmarks but also in its people, traditions, and the values of hospitality and knowledge that have been passed down through generations. Whether through its historical role in Jordan’s governance, its contributions to education, or its spirit of religious harmony, Al-Husn remains a cornerstone of Jordanian heritage.
The Voice of Al-Husn in Poetry
The town’s beauty and significance have inspired poets, including the famous Jordanian poet Mustafa Wahbi Al-Tal, known as Arar. He once wrote:
“My night in Al-Husn, how beautiful it was, A night spent among noble companions. Oh, builder of the monastery, how I wish I could spend my entire life here. If all my days were like this, I would never grow tired of life.”
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