Explore the Majestic Charm of Hisham’s Palace: An Umayyad Castle in Palestine

Jericho, the ancient city of Palestine, holds a significant place in the history of the region. It is a hub of breathtaking archaeological sites, including Hisham’s Palace, a remarkable Umayyad castle that dates back to the 8th century. This magnificent structure is a symbol of the grandeur and elegance of the Umayyad Caliphate and is renowned for its intricate design, stunning mosaics, and elaborate interiors, making it a must-visit tourist destination in the West Bank.

The Grandeur of Hisham’s Palace

Constructed during the rule of the Umayyad Caliph Hisham ibn Abdul Malik, Hisham’s Palace boasts a two-story design spread across 30,000 square meters and divided into 22 separate sections. The palace was equipped with all the necessary amenities, including a large hammam, mosque, fountain, and gated walls, making it an ideal resting spot for the Umayyads during the winter months.

Although the palace suffered damage from an earthquake in 749 CE, recent efforts by Palestinian officials, with the support of international donors, have successfully restored the site to its former glory. Visitors to Hisham’s Palace can admire its intricate architecture, including its ornate stucco carvings on the walls, arches, ceilings, windows, balconies, and niches.

The Enormous Mosaic Floor

One of the defining features of Hisham’s Palace is its vast mosaic floor, considered one of the largest in the world. Beneath the dome of the hammam, this mosaic is created with stones sourced from various cities and regions across Palestine. It showcases a flower basket surrounded by geometric shapes, forming a beautiful blooming rose. 

The Tree of Life Mural: Representing Duality

Another hallmark of Hisham’s Palace is the Tree of Life mural located in the caliph’s diwan. This elaborate artwork is packed with philosophical symbolism, showcasing the duality of life through its imagery. On one side, a lion devours a gazelle, while on the other, two gazelles graze peacefully, symbolizing the contrast between good and evil, peace and war. The diwan originally housed several statues, which have since been relocated to the Palestine Museum in Jerusalem.

The Grand Hammam

The hammam at Hisham’s Palace, covering an area of 30 square meters, is the second-largest building on the site. It boasts rounded arches supporting its structure and is adorned with carved stones, statues, and murals, designed to offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience to its visitors.

Over the years, several attempts have been made to restore different sections of the palace, but some have been unsuccessful.