How long does it take to walk the Amman street art trail?

The full route takes approximately 2-3 hours (120-180 minutes) depending on how long you spend at each museum. The distance between the downtown core and the final parks is significant, so some may prefer to take a quick taxi for the final legs.

Is the street art in Amman permanent?

Many of the large-scale murals are permanent, but smaller pieces and graffiti on stairs like Al Kalha change frequently. The city hosts an annual festival called 'Baladk' which often results in new art appearing across the neighborhood.

Can I do this walking route in a wheelchair?

Unfortunately, no. Amman is a very hilly city and this route specifically includes historic stairs and uneven terrain in the Citadel and Downtown areas that are not accessible for wheelchairs.

Is it worth visiting Lweibdeh for street art?

Absolutely. Lweibdeh is the artistic heart of Amman and contains the highest density of galleries and public murals, making it an essential stop for any cultural exploration of the city.

What is the best time of day to see the murals?

Late afternoon is best. The lighting is ideal for photography, the temperatures are cooler for walking, and the neighborhood cafes in Lweibdeh start to come alive with a local, bohemian vibe.

Are there public toilets along the walking route?

Yes, public facilities are available at the major stops like the Jordan Museum, the Citadel, and the National Gallery of Fine Arts. Additionally, there are many cafes in Lweibdeh where you can stop for a break.

Do I need a ticket for the street art?

The street art itself is free to view as it is located in public spaces. However, certain stops on the route like the Jordan Museum, Citadel, and Roman Theater do require paid entry (often covered by the Jordan Pass).

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Amman is a city where ancient limestone heritage meets a vibrant, modern pulse. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the capital's creative soul through its burgeoning street art scene, historic neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks. As you navigate the winding streets and steep stairways of Lweibdeh and Downtown, you will witness how local and international artists have transformed the city's vertical canvas into a gallery of visual storytelling. This walking route highlights the contrast between the Roman ruins and the contemporary murals that now define Amman's urban identity. Beginning at the Jordan Museum, the trail leads you through the heart of the city's artistic revival. You will encounter the iconic Al Kalha Stairs, where colorful murals bridge the gap between the traditional markets of Downtown and the bohemian cafes of Lweibdeh. The journey continues through Darat al Funun, a sanctuary for contemporary Arab art, and ascends toward the Citadel for a panoramic view of the sprawling metropolis. Beyond the ancient sites, the route showcases the 7hills Skatepark, a testament to community-driven urban projects and youth culture. This neighborhood stroll is designed for those who wish to discover the local lifestyle at their own pace. While the street art Amman provides is dynamic and often changes with new festivals and community projects, the creative energy remains constant. From the grand scale of the Roman Theater to the hidden gems in AlShura Park, this self-guided adventure offers a deep dive into the cultural fabric of Jordan. Whether you are interested in photography, modern history, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of a Middle Eastern capital in transition, this walking route provides a comprehensive look at the art that breathes life into Amman's stone walls. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The vibrant murals of the historic Al Kalha Stairs

Contemporary Arab art at Darat al Funun’s historic villas

Youth culture and graffiti at the community-led 7hills Skatepark

Panoramic views of Amman from the Lweibdeh Lookout

The intersection of ancient history and modern life at the Roman Theater

Large-scale public art installations in King Abdullah II Park

Tour Stops (15)

Jordan Museum

Start your self-guided adventure at the Jordan Museum, a modern architectural landmark that houses the country's most significant archaeological finds. While the interior tells the story of Jordan's ancient past—including the famous Dead Sea Scrolls—the exterior and its placement in the 'Ras Al-Ayn' area mark the beginning of Amman's cultural corridor. This area has seen a massive transformation, turning industrial spaces into public squares. Take a moment to appreciate the clean lines of the building before heading into the bustling streets where the modern art scene begins to unfold.

Al Kalha Stairs

These historic stairs are one of the most famous connections between the lower Downtown area and the hilltop neighborhood of Lweibdeh. Al Kalha has become an open-air gallery, frequently decorated with vibrant murals, calligraphy, and community art projects. The artwork here is volatile and may change as new artists contribute to the space, reflecting the current social and artistic climate of the city. As you climb, look for the small shops and cafes that have integrated their storefronts into the art-filled environment, making this one of the most photographed spots in Amman.

Darat al Funun-The Khalid Shoman Foundation

Darat al Funun is more than just a gallery; it is a home for Arab artists. Set in a series of restored 1920s villas, this complex overlooks the downtown area and includes the ruins of a 6th-century Byzantine church in its garden. The foundation supports contemporary art through exhibitions and residencies. While the permanent collection is impressive, the rotating exhibits often feature cutting-edge street art and experimental media. The peaceful gardens offer a stark contrast to the busy streets below, providing a quiet space to reflect on the intersection of heritage and modern expression.

Amman Citadel

Perched on Jabal al-Qal'a, the Citadel represents the layers of Amman's history, from the Bronze Age to the Umayyad period. While the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace are the main draws, the site offers the best perspective to see how street art has scaled the city's hills. From this vantage point, you can spot large-scale murals on the sides of distant apartment buildings. The Citadel serves as a reminder that Amman has always been a canvas for human expression, whether through Roman stone carving or modern spray paint.

The Hashemite Plaza

This massive public space is the heartbeat of Downtown Amman. It was designed to provide a gathering place for locals and is often used for festivals and public performances. Surrounding the plaza, you'll find the historic hills of the city rising sharply, dotted with the white limestone houses that give Amman its nickname, the 'White City'. The plaza is a great place to observe the local pace of life and see how modern public planning attempts to harmonize with the ancient ruins that sit right next door.

Roman Theater

The Roman Theater is a spectacular 2nd-century structure that could once seat 6,000 people. It is still used today for cultural events, bridging two millennia of performance art. The precision of the ancient engineering is a work of art in itself. Notice how the theater is carved into the hillside, a technique that current urban artists often mimic by using the natural topography of Amman to frame their work. The contrast between the weathered Roman stone and the modern city life just meters away is a central theme of this walking route.

7hills Skatepark

7hills is a community-built skatepark that has become a hub for Amman's youth and a focal point for local street art. Built by volunteers, the park features a rotating array of graffiti and murals created by the skaters and local artists. It represents a grassroots movement to reclaim urban space for recreation and creative expression. The art here is raw and authentic, often reflecting the energy of the subcultures that thrive in the Lweibdeh area. It is a testament to how art can foster community and provide a voice for the younger generation.

Lweibdeh Lookout (مطل جبل اللويبدة)

This viewpoint offers a stunning panorama of Jabal Amman and the Downtown area. Lweibdeh is known as the artistic quarter of the city, and from here, you can see why. The neighborhood's layout, with its narrow streets and hidden corners, is perfect for the 'Baladk' street art festival, which has commissioned many of the large murals you see on the surrounding buildings. Take a moment to spot the different styles of art visible on the rooftops and facades from this elevated position.

Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts

This gallery is the premier institution for contemporary art in the region. Spread across two buildings separated by a park, it houses a vast collection of works from the Islamic world and beyond. The park itself, often referred to as the 'National Gallery Park,' frequently hosts outdoor sculptures and temporary installations. The gallery plays a crucial role in legitimizing the arts in Jordan, providing a bridge between traditional fine arts and the more rebellious street art seen earlier on this walk.

Haya Cultural Center

Located in the Shmeisani area, the Haya Cultural Center is a landmark dedicated to children's education and creativity. The center's design and public areas often feature colorful, educational art and murals designed to inspire the next generation of Jordanian artists. It serves as a reminder that the city's investment in culture starts at a young age. While primarily for families, the center's role in the city's cultural infrastructure is significant, showcasing how art is integrated into public education and community life.

Prince Hashem Bird Garden

This small, charming park in Shmeisani offers a green respite from the urban environment. While the birds are the main attraction, the park and its surrounding walls often feature local community art and decorative elements. It is a popular spot for local families and artists looking for a quiet place to sketch. The garden represents the 'softer' side of Amman's urban landscape, where nature and community art provide a peaceful break from the high-energy street art found in the city center.

AlShura Park

As we move toward the southern parts of the city, AlShura Park stands as a local neighborhood green space. In recent years, community initiatives have sought to beautify these neighborhood parks with murals that reflect local identity and pride. These works are often less about global street art trends and more about connecting with the immediate residents. It's a great example of how the 'mural movement' in Amman has spread from the tourist centers of Lweibdeh to the residential heart of the city.

Jordan Village Entertainment City

This area in Al-Muqabalayn showcases a different side of Amman’s development. Entertainment complexes like this often use large-scale graphics and commercial art to create an immersive environment. While different from the independent street art of Downtown, it reflects the commercial and pop-culture influences on Jordan’s visual landscape. It provides an interesting comparison to the more political or social murals found earlier on the route, highlighting the diversity of visual media in the capital.

Royal Tank Museum

The Royal Tank Museum is a world-class institution with a striking architectural design that mimics the desert landscape. While the focus here is military history, the museum itself is a masterpiece of modern industrial design and curation. The way the massive vehicles are displayed—often against dramatic backdrops and lighting—is a form of storytelling that shares the same DNA as the public art seen throughout the city. It represents the 'royal' and 'official' side of Jordan’s storytelling through monumental scales.

King Abdullah II Park

Ending the trail at King Abdullah II Park, one of the largest parks in Amman, you can find wide open spaces and modern public facilities. The park often serves as a site for large-scale public art projects and festivals. Its expansive walls and structures offer a massive canvas for future murals. As you walk through the park, reflect on the diversity of art you've seen—from the ancient stone carvings of the Roman Theater to the community-driven graffiti of 7hills and the official monuments of the city’s museums.

Frequently Asked Questions

The street art trail through Lweibdeh and Downtown is the premier self-guided walk for art enthusiasts. It covers everything from historic galleries like Darat al Funun to modern murals on the Al Kalha Stairs and community spaces like 7hills Skatepark.