Qaṣabah Jarash

Qaṣabah Jarash is the only district of Jerash Governorate in north Jordan. Covering approximately 409.8 km² (158.2 sq mi), it had a population of 237,059 residents according to the 2015 census. It is further sub-divided into three sub-districts: Jarash, Mastabah, and Borma. The region has a Mediterranean climate with agriculture as the major economic activity.

The history of Jerash region dates back to its establishment in the fourth century BCE.^[1] It was part of the Decapolis, an alliance of ten cities, during the Roman Empire.^[2] Under Roman rule, it was known as Gerasa, and it was later abandoned in the eighth century CE after an earthquake before being reestablished in the 19th century.^[3] The district of Qaṣabah Jarash was formalised in 1994 as part of Governorate-level administrative reforms.^[4]

Qaṣabah Jarash is the only district of Jerash Governorate in north Jordan.^[5] It covers an area of approximately 409.8 km² (158.2 sq mi).^[6] It is further sub-divided into three sub-districts: Jarash, Mastabah, and Borma.^[7] The region has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and cold winters. The elevation varies from 300 m (980 ft) to more than 1,200 m (3,900 ft). It is surrounded by high mountains, which accumulate snow during the winters.^[2]

Qasabah Jarash had a population of 237,059 residents according to the 2015 census.^[6][8] The economy is predominantly dependent on agriculture. The region has a number of oil mills, owing to the large production of olives. There are olive trees, which had existed for hundreds of years, since the Roman era. Fruits and cereals are also cultivated.^[2] It is also considered as a tourist destination due to milder weather compared to other regions of Jordan in the summers, and its historical sites.^[2] Local theatres host Roman chariot experience shows, and the annual Jerash Festival of Culture & Arts, established in 1981, features music, dance, poetry, and handicrafts.^[1] The region is well connected with other cities by regional highways.^[1]