AMMAN — The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ (Al Maghtas) welcomed 25,547 visitors during January and February 2026, including 23,242 foreign visitors and 2,305 Jordanians, according to Ministry of Tourism data cited by Al Mamlaka TV.

 

The figures mark a 135.9 per cent increase compared with the same period 2025, when the site received 10,829 visitors, including 9,096 foreigners and 1,733 Jordanians.

 

The ministry noted that the 2026 figures remain preliminary.

 

Al Maghtas, located around nine kilometers north of the Dead Sea, is considered one of Christianity’s holiest sites and holds deep religious significance for all Christian denominations.

 

Preservation efforts at the UNESCO World Heritage site are part of Jordan’s historic responsibility towards holy sites east of the Jordan River.

 

Late Pope John Paul II declared the Baptism Site a Christian pilgrimage destination during his historic visit to Jordan in 2000.

 

The site has since welcomed pilgrims from around the world, including Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis, and numerous international religious and political leaders.

 

The archaeological site consists of two distinct areas: Tell Al Kharrar, also known as Jabal Mar-Elias (Elijah’s Hill) and the area of the churches of Saint John the Baptist near the river, according to UNESCO website.

 

Situated in a pristine natural environment, the site is believed to be the location where Jesus of Nazareth was baptised by John the Baptist.

 

It features Roman and Byzantine remains including churches and chapels, a monastery, caves that have been used by hermits and pools in which baptisms were celebrated, testifying to the religious character of the place. The site is a Christian place of pilgrimage, UNESCO added.