Aqaba Church
The Aqaba Church is a 3rd-century church and is considered the oldest known church in the world. It holds this distinction as the earliest Christian building specifically constructed for worship, unlike earlier churches that were repurposed from other structures or religious sites. Discovered in 1998, its construction has been dated between 293 AD and 303 AD, making it slightly older than the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, both of which date to the 4th century AD. The exact Christian denomination or theological affiliation of its followers remains unknown, though historical records mention Beryllus of Elia, who attended the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. Its location within the Roman Empire likely contributed to its survival, as it was spared from destruction during the Great Persecution, which began a few years after its construction.
- Category
- Religious · Historical Religious Places
- Governorate
- Aqaba
- Address
- Ar-Rashid St., Aqaba
Directions on Google Maps · Website
Opening hours
- Monday: 00:00 – 23:59
- Tuesday: 00:00 – 23:59
- Wednesday: 00:00 – 23:59
- Thursday: 00:00 – 23:59
- Friday: 00:00 – 23:59
- Saturday: 00:00 – 23:59
- Sunday: 00:00 – 23:59
Features
- Assistive hearing loop
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Gender-neutral toilets
- Picnic tables
- Public toilet
- Walking
- Free parking
- Accepts reservations
- Free parking lot
- Seating
- Family friendly
- Reservations required
- Locals
- Women prayer section
Islamic Heritage