CityBuddy
Darat al Funun
Best time to visit
Morning hours 9-11 are the calmest time before the biggest rush of visitors. Spring and autumn are the best seasons when the courtyard plantings are in bloom and you can enjoy the mild air on the rooftop terrace.
Budget tips
Entry is completely free, as with all Jordanian state art institutions. There are no mandatory fees or ticket sales on site, so you can arrive directly.
Recommended for
Art lovers and contemporary art collectors, Those interested in architecture and old buildings, City dwellers seeking peace and quiet, Photographers who want unique pictures of Amman's architecture
Plan your visit
1.5-2 hours
About
Quick facts: Three historical houses from the early 20th century merge together, creating a fascinating architectural entity in the heart of Amman. The courtyard's citrus trees and cacti offer a cooling escape from the city's bustle, and inside the walls, rotating contemporary art exhibitions are on display.
Highlights: Part of the building is constructed around a 600-year-old olive tree, and its trunk rises in the middle of the gallery space under a glass ceiling. Artists have said that the tree's quiet presence changes the entire atmosphere of the space and makes the artworks look completely different than in a traditional white gallery.
Insider tips
- The rooftop terrace offers the best view of Amman's old downtown, especially at sunset.
- Bring a water bottle, as the temperature rises high during the summer months and there are few shady spots in the nearby area.
- Set aside 15 minutes just to sit in the courtyard, it has the calmest corner in the whole place.
- Check the exhibition calendar in advance, as some works are on display only for a short time and there is no permanent collection.
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