5Madaba, Jordan: The Mosaic Map of the Holy Land
Madaba, a small city in Jordan, is home to one of the most important and ancient mosaics in the world: the Madaba Map. This 6th-century mosaic, located in the floor of the Greek Orthodox Basilica of Saint George, is the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land and Jerusalem.
The mosaic map is a detailed representation of the region, showing towns, cities, rivers, and landmarks. Jerusalem is depicted prominently, with its walls, gates, and churches. The Madaba Map is not only a masterpiece of early Christian art but also an invaluable historical document, providing insight into the geography and religious landscape of the Byzantine period.
