Day 12 Amman

Today we traveled to Ammon, capital of Jordan. Six million people live here. On our way, we stopped at Mount Nebo, (mountain wilderness), the place Moses climbed to see the Holy Lands. He died in the area and was buried The location is not exactly known. We met Mohammed at the top by the Franciscan Church. His family owned this land until it was
purchased by the Franciscans from his great grandfather. He now lives in Ohio and comes back frequently. The church has been renovated due to earthquakes. Some mosaic flooring was destroyed but fortunately one survived intact that tells the story of the land. We traveled on to a shop that is subsidized by the government, they hire handicapped artisans that make the most beautiful mosaics. Sadly, the war in Israel and Palestine have kept tourists away. Where they used to have 1000 people a day they now have maybe 50. We next went Madaba to a Greek Orthodox Church. Again renovations happening. The floor has a surviving partial mosaic map of the Holy Lands. Also they are reconstructing the mosaic piece at the alter. It will be fantastic. On a fun note, we stopped for a bite to eat and saw a shop that sold Barbie dolls. Very unique.Read more