Saint Marianos Church
The church is located in the Roman city of Jerash. It was built in 570 AD during the time of Bishop Marianos and was named after him, Saint Marianos Church. It is also called the Mosaic Church because of its geometric mosaic designs. The church is still in good condition, preserving its original Byzantine elements.
The church has a very simple design, with a single nave and a main entrance that connects Amman (Philadelphia) and Jerash (Gerasa). It is surrounded by several underground tombs dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD.
It is believed that the church was built for residents who took over the horse stable in front of it during the 6th and 7th centuries AD. These residents were likely craftsmen, working in pottery and dyeing. They converted three horse rooms into living spaces and decorated the floors with mosaics, located in the hippodrome area. The mosaics show bird designs and indicate that the rooms were used by Deacon Elias, who abandoned them in the 7th century AD—one century before the church was destroyed by the earthquake of 749 AD.
How to Reach Jerash
When you arrive at the Jerash Visitor Center, purchase your entrance ticket. From there, head upstairs using the steps. You will find the first large gate ahead of you. Walk through it and continue straight, and you will find the church on your right-hand side.
