Iraq Al-Amir, 18 km west of Amman
Neolithic Period

Residents – FREE
Non-residents – FREE

NO

North 31° 55′ 32″
East 35° 45′ 11″

4.3/5

Ancient Caves

Iraq al-Amir, meaning “Caves of the Prince,” is an archaeological site near Qasr al-Abd in Jordan, featuring a series of 15 ancient caves carved into the cliffs of Wadi al-Seer. These caves are arranged in two levels: six on the lower tier and nine on the upper, connected by a 300-meter-long gallery that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Artefacts such as scrapers and bone tools indicate that the caves served as shelters during prehistoric times. Notably, a stone block with niches at the left end of the upper level has been identified as a columbarium (dovecote), suggesting the caves’ association with ancient cultic practices.  

The caves also bear historical inscriptions and architectural features linking them to the Tobiad family, a powerful Jewish dynasty during the Hellenistic period. Above the entrance of cave number 13, an Aramaic inscription of the name “Tobias” is visible, reinforcing this connection. Additionally, water basins, interior divisions, and remnants of a former ramp suggest that some caves may have been used as stables, possibly for the cavalry of Hyrcanus, the head of the Tobiad family and the presumed builder of the nearby Qasr al-Abd.

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