Jordan, a land of mesmerizing landscapes and ancient history, has long been a favorite location for filmmakers from around the world. Its dramatic deserts, towering rock formations, and rich cultural heritage have provided the perfect backdrop for some of the most iconic films in cinema history. From epic historical dramas to futuristic sci-fi adventures, Jordan’s diverse terrains have brought to life a variety of cinematic worlds. This article will take you on a journey through Jordan’s most famous film locations, visiting the breathtaking sites featured in Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Star Wars (2016, 2019), The Martian (2015), Prometheus (2012), Dune (2021), Dune: Part Two (2023), and John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023).
1. Wadi rum: the desert of cinematic dreams
Films: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Martian (2015), Prometheus (2012), Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019), Dune (2021), Dune: Part Two (2023)
Wadi Rum, often referred to as the Valley of the Moon, is arguably the most famous film location in Jordan. Its vast desert landscape, with towering sandstone and granite rock formations, has been the setting for numerous films.
- Lawrence of Arabia: This 1962 classic was one of the first films to showcase Wadi Rum’s stunning scenery. The movie, which tells the story of T.E. Lawrence, a British officer involved in the Arab Revolt during World War I, captures the rugged beauty of the desert, with Wadi Rum serving as the perfect stand-in for the Arabian Peninsula.
- The Martian: In 2015, Ridley Scott’s The Martian transformed Wadi Rum into the surface of Mars. The red sands and otherworldly landscape made Wadi Rum the ideal location to depict the desolate Martian environment where astronaut Mark Watney, played by Matt Damon, fights for survival.
- Prometheus: Another Ridley Scott film, Prometheus (2012), also utilized Wadi Rum’s alien-like landscape to depict the distant moon LV-223, where the film’s characters embark on a perilous mission.
- Star Wars: The Force Awakens e Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker: La trilogia sequel di Star Wars, inclusi The Force Awakens (2015) e The Rise of Skywalker (2019), ha utilizzato Wadi Rum per rappresentare il pianeta desertico Jakku e altre location remote. L’ampio deserto ha fornito lo sfondo perfetto per il pianeta natale di Rey, Jakku, con le sue vaste distese sabbiose e ambientazioni isolate fondamentali per la narrativa di Star Wars.
- Dune and Dune: Part Two: Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune and its sequel have also featured Wadi Rum extensively. The desert’s iconic dunes and rocky outcrops were the perfect fit for the planet Arrakis, a central setting in the Dune universe.
2. Petra: the rose city of the Nabataeans
Film: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
While not part of the primary list, Petra deserves an honorary mention for its role in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. The Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, served as the location of the temple housing the Holy Grail. Petra’s ancient architecture and mysterious aura make it one of Jordan’s most recognizable film locations.
3. Amman citadel: the ancient heart of Jordan
Film: John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
In John Wick: Chapter 4, Keanu Reeves’ character travels to the Middle East, with Jordan’s Amman Citadel featured as a key location. The Citadel, perched on one of Amman’s seven hills, offers panoramic views of the city and has remnants from Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad civilizations. The blend of history and breathtaking views makes the Citadel a must-visit for film enthusiasts.
4. Wadi araba: the vast wilderness
Film: Dune: Part Two (2023)
Another significant location for the Dune series, Wadi Araba, is a vast desert valley stretching from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba. Its rugged, barren landscapes served as additional locations for the planet Arrakis in Dune: Part Two. The area’s isolation and dramatic scenery make it a fitting choice for a story set in a harsh, desert world.
Suggested itinerary for a cinematic journey through Jordan
Day 1: Arrival in Amman
- Begin your journey in Jordan’s capital, Amman. Visit the Amman Citadel, where scenes from John Wick: Chapter 4 were filmed. Explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Day 2: Petra
- Travel to Petra, the ancient Nabataean city. While it’s not part of the main list, the Treasury is a must-see for any film enthusiast, especially those who love Indiana Jones.
Day 3: Wadi Rum
- Head to Wadi Rum, where you’ll spend the day exploring the desert that has stood in for Mars, distant moons, and alien planets in films like The Martian, Prometheus, Star Wars, and Dune. Consider an overnight stay in a Bedouin camp to experience the desert night sky.
Day 4: Wadi Araba
- Continue your journey to Wadi Araba, a less-visited but equally stunning desert landscape featured in Dune: Part Two. The isolation of this area provides a serene conclusion to your desert exploration.
Day 5: Departure
- Before leaving Jordan, you may have additional time to explore local attractions or relax before departing from Amman.
Jordan’s landscapes have provided the backdrop for some of the most memorable scenes in modern cinema. From the timeless beauty of Wadi Rum to the ancient splendor of Petra and the historic Amman Citadel, Jordan offers a cinematic journey unlike any other. Whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or simply a traveler looking for unique experiences, Jordan’s film locations offer a captivating glimpse into both the real and imagined worlds of cinema.