Saint Mary Church
In the heart of the town rehab In the Jordanian governorate of Mafraq, stands St. Mary's Church As a testament to the genius of Byzantine architecture and religious mosaic art in past centuries.
This ancient church was discovered in 2010with dimensions 23 x 19.39 metersIt was built in the style basilica The traditional style that was common in Byzantine churches.
Architectural design
The church consists of:
- semi-circular curve It is surrounded by two side rooms.
- Holy of Holies barrier Which separates the sanctuary from the nave of the church.
- Central Square It is surrounded by two side suits.
- One main door It is located in the western wall.
Stunning mosaic floors
The church nave floor is one of the finest examples of Byzantine mosaic, framed by intricate, interwoven motifs. 12 octagonsIt is believed that it contained images that were destroyed during Icon Wars.
The floor of the north wing consists of Intersecting circlesMeanwhile, the floor of the south wing consists of Interlocking squares interspersed with circles.
historical inscriptions
At the entrance to the temple, a long inscription appears stating:
“معبد القديسة ماريا أكتمل ورصف بالفسيفساء زمن مارتيريوس إلياس وأوليف أبناء أوليف المباركين من أجل راحتهم وراحة ذويهم سنة 411 في التاسع من شهر بانيموس في الإندكتي الحادية عشرة.”
Other inscriptions were also found that refer to:
- Restoration of the mosaics in the year 411 In the first indicative.
- A prayer for the comfort and salvation of the donors.
Chronological dating
According to the history of Bosra.The construction of this church dates back to the year 933 ADThis makes it one of the oldest Christian architectural monuments in the region.
📌 The importance of the church
The Church of St. Mary in Rehab represents a unique blend of architectural art and spirituality, and is a testament to Byzantine creativity in the design of sacred spaces, in addition to its historical and religious role as a place of worship and spiritual gathering for the people of the region more than a thousand years ago.
