On a hilltop in the wooded Ajloun hills, just across a small valley from the Byzantine churches of Tell Mar Elias, stands the mosque of Listib. Local sources describe it as dating from the Umayyad period, which would make it one of the oldest religious buildings in Jordan.
Where Is Listeb Mosque?
The mosque stands at about 850 m above sea level in Ajloun Governorate, north-west of Tell Mar Elias, which lies some 500 m away, and about 5 km north-west of Ajloun town.
Historical Context and Origin
According to Jordanian press reports quoting local religious officials, the mosque dates back to the Umayyad era. No inscription has been published and no excavation has taken place, so its date has not been confirmed by archaeology. The ruins of Listib nearby are traditionally identified with Tishbe, the home of the Prophet Elijah, although surveys there have found no remains earlier than the Roman period.
Architectural Design
The mosque is built of local limestone and, according to local reports, has two domes and decorated columns.
Limestone Mosque
A mosque of local limestone in the Ajloun hills.
Domes and Columns
Local reports describe two domes and decorated columns.
Restored Shrine
Restored by the Royal Committee for the shrines of the Companions.
Elijah’s Hills
It stands beside the ruins of Listib, traditionally Tishbe, Elijah’s home.
A Hilltop of Faith
Few places in Jordan bring together so many traditions within a short walk: the Byzantine pilgrimage churches of Tell Mar Elias, the ruins traditionally identified with Elijah’s Tishbe, and this mosque. A Royal Committee brochure on the shrines of the Prophet’s Companions also mentions the village of Listib.
Destruction, Rediscovery, and Restoration
The mosque has been restored by the Royal Committee for the Reconstruction of the Shrines and Maqams of the Companions, according to the Awqaf directorate of Ajloun.
Visiting Listeb Mosque Today
The mosque is a short walk from Tell Mar Elias and can be seen in about 15 minutes. Please dress modestly and respect prayer times.
