Ayn al-Zara

Ayn al-Zara, known in antiquity as Callirrhoe, is an archaeological site located on the eastern shore of the Dead Sea in Jordan. The site is renowned for its thermal springs, which were historically visited by King Herod in 4 BCE as a remedy for his ailments. The remains of a nymphaeum and a villa, potentially inspired by Herodian architecture, highlight the site's historical significance. The villa dates back to the 1st century CE and reflects the opulence associated with Herod's reign. Callirrhoe served as a harbor site for the nearby fortress of Machaerus, connected by an ancient road. Represented on the Madaba Map, the site showcases structures such as a spring house and the nymphaeum, emphasizing its historical role as a center of healing and trade.