Recognizing their historical and tourism significance, as well as their long-standing role in providing drinking water and irrigating crops for local residents, the Greater Ajloun Municipality has launched the “Ajloun, Land of Springs” initiative. The project aims to revive historic springs through restoration and heritage-style redevelopment, highlighting their value as tourist attractions while continuing to support their traditional use for agricultural irrigation.
اضافة اعلان
Municipal officials say the initiative is part of broader efforts to promote eco-tourism and preserve Ajloun’s historical and water heritage by rehabilitating key historic springs and incorporating them into tourism trails that attract visitors from within Jordan and abroad.
Mayor Mohammad Al-Bashabsheh explained that the initiative was launched in response to the deteriorating condition of many historic springs, which had suffered from neglect, accumulated debris, blocked water channels, reduced flow rates, and the deterioration of surrounding areas. As a result, many springs lost their aesthetic and historical value despite representing centuries of connection between people and the land.
He stressed that the initiative goes beyond environmental and engineering aspects to become a comprehensive development project that reshapes Ajloun’s tourism and cultural landscape. Environmentally, the municipality prioritizes protecting these renewable water resources by cleaning waterways and channels to ensure the continuous flow of clean water and prevent pollution. This effort contributes to revitalizing surrounding green spaces and restoring the natural beauty for which Ajloun is renowned.
Al-Bashabsheh added that the initiative also carries a strong human and cultural dimension by reconnecting younger generations with landmarks deeply rooted in the memories of older residents. These springs serve as living links between people and their heritage while supporting an ambitious investment vision aimed at transforming them from simple stopping points into major tourist attractions equipped to receive visitors, hikers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts.
He noted that the project is expected to generate tangible economic benefits for local communities by creating new investment and employment opportunities, stimulating commercial activity, strengthening the local economy, and positioning Ajloun as a leading model for sustainable tourism that invests in history to build the future.
A Story of Land and Identity
Municipality spokesperson Amani Al-Tawalbeh described Ain Al-Tays spring as a heritage icon that tells the story of the land and local identity. Located at the entrance to the town of Ain Janna, the spring is more than just a water source; it is a symbol deeply embedded in Ajloun’s collective memory.
Its significance is reflected in a local saying often repeated by residents: “If you are from Ajloun, then surely you have drunk from Ain Al-Tays and eaten from its oak trees.” The phrase highlights the close connection between Ajloun’s identity and its natural environment.
Al-Tawalbeh explained that restoration work at the site has exceeded 80 percent completion. The spring has been rebuilt in a traditional architectural style using authentic stone from Ajloun’s mountains, while the ancient oak tree at the site has been carefully preserved as a living symbol of local heritage. A central fountain, paved plazas, and pedestrian paths now provide visitors with an opportunity to experience both the area’s history and natural beauty.
Ain Umm Al-Juloud: A Gateway of History and Beauty
Al-Tawalbeh also highlighted Ain Umm Al-Juloud, located on the main road linking Ajloun, Jerash, and Amman. The spring serves as a welcoming landmark at the entrance to Anjara and has been transformed into a distinctive architectural attraction where nature and history blend harmoniously.
The project included rebuilding the spring’s façade and arched gateway using Ajloun’s distinctive yellow stone, engraved with Quranic verses emphasizing the importance and sanctity of water. Water once again flows through channels that have been fully cleaned and restored.
With approximately 90 percent of the project completed, the site now features elegantly designed pedestrian pathways paved with colorful stones, landscaped flower beds, and rose gardens. Rest areas will also be added to allow visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.
One of the most prominent features is a large memorial monument made from rocks taken from Ajloun’s mountains, inscribed with words celebrating the city’s heritage and identity. Together, these elements create a comprehensive cultural and tourism destination.
Calls for Expansion
Tourism activist Majed Al-Zghoul expressed hope that the initiative will be expanded to include additional historic springs such as Ain Umm Al-Abar in Al-Safa and Al-Ain Al-Barraniyah in Ain Janna, ensuring that more of Ajloun’s historic water sources are revived and preserved for both residents and visitors.
He described the initiative as a pioneering model for utilizing local resources and transforming environmental challenges into development opportunities. According to Al-Zghoul, the restoration of these springs represents a genuine investment in Ajloun’s living heritage and reinforces the enduring connection between people, their land, and their historical landmarks.
Environmental and Tourism Benefits
Jordan Environment Association Vice President Rabeea Al-Momani emphasized that rehabilitating spring surroundings and providing suitable visitor facilities help reduce random recreational activities and their environmental impact. She stressed the importance of protecting vegetation and green spaces, which are among Ajloun’s main tourism assets.
She noted that improved natural sites are increasingly attracting local, Arab, and international visitors, particularly locations featuring flowing water and scenic viewpoints. Many tourists visit these areas to enjoy nature, take photographs, and spend more time in the governorate, boosting tourism activity.
Meanwhile, Eng. Ibtehal Al-Samadi, president of the Ajloun Green Association for Environmental Development, said that rehabilitating springs and natural sites helps protect environmental resources and ensure their sustainability. She pointed out that Ajloun is home to dozens of springs that could be developed in an environmentally responsible way while providing safe recreational spaces for families and visitors.
For his part, Eng. Muawiya Ananbeh, head of the Ajloun Governorate Council Committee, emphasized the importance of restoring springs and natural sites to showcase Ajloun’s beauty and strengthen its position as a distinguished tourism and environmental destination. He noted that the governorate possesses unique natural and tourism assets that warrant continued investment and development, with the council supporting projects that improve tourism infrastructure, stimulate local investment, and create economic opportunities for residents.
