Cyprus and Jordan: A Journey Through the Ages

Bryn Mawr College

Including Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

June 05 - June 17, 2009

Registration Open - Please call us at (800) 451-4321 or email travel@siemerhand.com for more information.

Study Leader - James Wright

Accompanying us on our journey will be Professor James Wright and his wife Dr. Mary K. Dabney. Professor James Wright is Chairman of the Department of Classical and Near Eastern Archaeology at Bryn Mawr College. He teaches the prehistory of the Aegean and classical archaeology and has been a member ...more

Study Leader - Mary Dabney

Dr. Mary K. Dabney has been a Research Associate and Lecturer in Classical and Near Eastern Archaeology at Bryn Mawr College. Her teaching and research interests include interconnections between Greece and the Near East during the second millennium B.C. As Co-Director of the Nemea Valley Archaeological Project in Greece she is publishing the Late Mycenaean settlement on Tsoungiza and co-directing the Mycenaean cemetery excavations. Dr. Dabney has also directed museum and historic sites in the more...

Summary

This unique program explores Cyprus, a fascinating Eastern Mediterranean and nearby Jordan, including the spectacular site of Petra.

Considered a stepping-stone between Europe, Asia and Africa and long coveted by a succession of world powers, Cyprus’ 10,000-year history reveals itself in Neolithic-era archaeological sites, extensive Roman ruins, imposing Crusader castles and ornate Byzantine churches and monasteries. Nowadays, Cyprus is a modern country that manages to combine European culture with ancient enchantment and tradition. Cyprus’ major cities are Nicosia, the only divided capital city in Europe; Larnaca, probably the oldest inhabited place in Cyprus; Limassol, which became a flourishing city during the time of the crusaders; and Paphos, site of stunning mosaics.

Don't miss the optional extension to Jordan, an archaeological treasure trove. Walk or ride through the "siq" into legendary Petra, and enjoy a tour of Lawrence of Arabia's Wadi Rum. We also see the magnificently preserved Roman city of Jerash and ascend to Saladin's castle of Ajloun. We view the Promised Land from Mount Nebo, take a relaxing "swim" in the Dead Sea, and enjoy a traditional dinner with a family in Amman.