Ammon - Warda Cave, located south of the town of Anjara in Ajloun Governorate, is one of the most prominent archaeological and mining sites in Jordan due to its historical evidence that confirms the importance of the region as a center for the extraction and smelting of iron ore through successive periods of time, making it a prominent station in the history of mining and mineral industries in the region.
اضافة اعلان
The Chairman of the Committee of the Ajloun Governorate Council, Eng. Muawiya Annab, said that Warda Cave represents a unique historical and tourist landmark that embodies the importance of Ajloun Governorate in the economic and industrial history of Jordan, stressing that the site is one of the most prominent evidence of the investment of natural resources in the region throughout the ages, which requires more attention, protection and inclusion in the tourist and cultural routes.
He pointed out that the cave and the surrounding archaeological sites form part of the historical identity of Ajloun and contribute to highlighting the role of the governorate in the march of human civilization, indicating the need to promote studies and researches related to the site and introduce it locally and internationally.
For his part, former director of Ajloun antiquities and researcher Mohammed Abu Abila said that archaeological excavations have proven that the use of the cave dates back to the Stone Ages and continued until the Islamic periods, but its peak was during the Ayyubid and Mamluk eras.
He added that the name of the cave was associated with the distinctive red color of the iron ore in it, which ranges from bright red to dark red and resembles the color of roses, so it was known as Warda Cave, indicating that historical sources indicate that the iron mine in the cave was discovered around 1200 AD by the Ayyubid commander Izz al-Din Osama, where its ores were used in the metal industries that flourished in that period.
For his part, heritage researcher Mohammed Al-Momani said that the "Warda" cave represents an important part of the historical and heritage memory of Ajloun Governorate, pointing out that the site embodies the close relationship between humans and natural resources throughout history and reflects an aspect of the economic activity that the region has witnessed for many centuries.
He stressed that the cave is a testament to Jordan's early contribution to mining and mineral extraction, which gives it a national value that deserves further documentation and definition.
For his part, tourist guide Issa Al-Shara said that Warda Cave is one of the most famous caves and historical caves in Jordan and is of exceptional importance to researchers and those interested in geological and archaeological tourism due to its iron ores and evidence related to ancient mining operations.
He pointed out that geological studies have shown that the iron ore found in the cave is of the high-quality hematite type, and that it was formed within the limestone layers and in the form of veins of varying thickness due to natural geological processes over thousands of years, which gives the site scientific importance in addition to its historical importance.
For his part, Khaled Al-Samadi, a member of the Our Tourism Initiative, explained that Warda Cave represents an important tourist and heritage treasure in Ajloun Governorate, pointing out that the site tells an aspect of Jordan's industrial and civilizational history and reflects the early contribution of Jordanians in iron extraction and the development of metal industries.
He added that highlighting this site and introducing its historical story contributes to promoting cultural and heritage tourism and enhances awareness of the importance of preserving sites that document important milestones in Jordan's history and civilization that span the ages.
