Ever wonder what it’s like to stand where ancient empires once clashed? You are now in the Mahes and Fuhais District. This place whispers tales of Romans, Byzantines, and early Arab settlers.
The Mahes and Fuhais District is a historic area. It sits northwest of Salt and west of Amman. This district offers more than just a scenic view.
Let’s dive into the story of Mahis. Mahis is also spelled Mahas. The name Mahis comes from the Arabic word meaning “to check out and examine”. This is due to its history as a border checkpoint.
Mahis emerged during the Roman period. It bordered Jewish Perea and Philadelphia. Philadelphia is Amman today. Later, it sat between the dioceses of Gadara and Philadelphia during Byzantine rule.
In 1838, Mahis was noted south of Al-Salt. Back then, it was already in ruins. By 1915, the Ottoman census recorded Mahis. It included the Jabara tribe with 505 people. The Jordanian census of 1961 counted 1,154 residents. By the early 1980s, Mahis became a suburb of Amman.
Mahis is known for its altitude. It stands over 800 meters high. This provides views of the Jordan Valley. On a clear day, you can see Jerusalem’s walls. The town boasts orchards and many water features. The Fountain of Mahis is particularly famous.
The economy of Mahis was primarily agrarian. Farmers grew wheat, barley, and tobacco. They also cultivated pomegranates, grapes, and olives. Figs and olives remain key income sources. The area yields kaolin, processed in neighboring Fuhais. Almeda, the southern part of Mahis, is popular with tourists. Its forested mountains offer proximity to the Dead Sea, West Bank, and Amman.
Now let’s explore Fuheis. Al-Fuhais has been called by several names. The name is derived from examination and scrutiny. Fuheis was strategically important. It was located between the kingdoms of Ammon, Heshbon, and Gilead.
The Romans recognized this. They inhabited Al-Fuhais around 64 BC. They used its castle as a watchtower. This protected their convoys.
Today, Fuheis is a rural town. It blends tradition with modern life. The people are known for their chivalry and generosity. It is called the pearl of Balqa Governorate. Fuheis is famous for its trees, vineyards, and forests. Fuheis became a municipality in 1962.
Fuheis has a significant Christian presence. Arab Christians predate Islam here. They have remained through the centuries. The Latin Parish of Fuheis was established in 1874. During the Ottoman era, the Latin Church led in education. The people of Fuheis maintained their Bedouin roots. They also kept their Christian spirit.
The Latin parish is active. It focuses on environmental protection and cultural awareness. The parish includes a school. It began in 1885. Priests taught children Arabic, religion, and math.
In Mahes, you can find the shrine of Khidr. It is a single room with a green flag. Near Mahis, you can visit the grave of Prophet Shuaib. He is known as Jethro in the Bible.
Standing here, you’re surrounded by layers of history. The Mahes and Fuhais District tells stories of ancient borders and cultural heritage. It is a place where the past and present meet.