The steam locomotives
In the station yard.
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Amman station is a historic stop on the Hejaz Railway, built in Ottoman times with stone buildings and tiled roofs. The surrounding area took the name al-Mahatta, «the station», from it. Today it houses a railway museum, a rewarding stop for lovers of old trains and history, away from the tourist crowds. The Ottomans built the line between 1900 and 1908 to link Damascus with Medina over 1,302 km, to carry pilgrims and tie the empire's provinces together, with funding from donations across the Islamic world. Amman station opened in 1904 and helped turn a small village into a commercial hub. Emir Abdullah I arrived in Amman by this line on 2 March 1921, and the station is thought to be one reason the city became capital of his new state. You see the platform, the stone building and the blue Amman sign, with old steam locomotives and timber carriages in the yard. Among the displays is the carriage King Abdullah I used on his arrival, and the museum shows equipment used to run the line. The railway sometimes runs tourist trips, including to the ruins of Umm el-Jimal. It is 5.8 km in a straight line from downtown, so take a taxi. A 2024 grant funds the renovation of the museum and buildings, so you may find parts under work. Call before going to confirm the museum is open and the time of any trip. Take care around the tracks and old equipment when taking pictures.
In the station yard.
From his 1921 arrival.
With the blue Amman sign.
Al-Mahatta, east of central Amman
Not as a regular passenger service, but tourist trips run at times, so ask first.
It helped Amman grow, and Emir Abdullah I arrived through it in 1921.