Aqaba, Dec. 15 (Petra) – On behalf of His Majesty King Abdullah II, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Emad Hijazeen inaugurated the restored Aqaba Church on Monday, marking a milestone in preserving Jordan’s historical and cultural heritage.

The Aqaba Church, dating back to between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD, is among the oldest Christian sites in the world. Its restoration underscores Aqaba’s historical role as a center of coexistence and human unity throughout the ages.

Hijazeen said the church represents not only a historical site but an integral part of Jordanian identity, reflecting the nation’s commitment to religious diversity as a source of strength. He emphasized that the opening embodies the Hashemite custodianship of Islamic and Christian holy sites and highlights Aqaba as a gateway for civilizations and a hub for global religious and cultural tourism.

Shadi Majali, Chairperson of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, described the opening as a celebration of the city’s history and humanitarian mission. He noted that Aqaba, historically known as Ayla, has long been a meeting place for pilgrims, merchants, and travelers, fostering unity and brotherhood across generations.

Archbishop Christophoros Atallah, Greek Orthodox Archbishop of Jordan, said the church stands as a testament to Jordan’s enduring role as a land of faith, inclusivity, and human dignity. "Here in Aqaba, we read history through the eyes of love, and hear in the church’s stones the echo of a single message: humanity is sacred, and true faith is built upon respect for others," he said.

Archbishop Iyad Twal, the Latin Patriarchal Vicar in Jordan, added that the church’s reopening reflects Jordan’s status as a cradle of civilizations and religions, with historical sites across the Kingdom bearing witness to a legacy of harmony, pluralism, and coexistence.

//Petra// AJ