Roman baths and site uncovered in Amman

Remains discovered during excavation works to install water drainage system

A tourist walks past the Temple of Hercules in Amman (KHALIL MAZRAAWI/AFP via Getty Images)

A Roman archaeological site featuring baths and a crematorium have been uncovered in Jordan’s capital city during excavation works.

The remains were discovered during excavation works to install a water drainage system in downtown Amman, according to Gulf News, which cited local reports.

A second-century tiled Roman baths with heated cellars and a crematorium were found at the site opposite the Roman Amphitheatre.

Local authorities were installing a system to control floods which have damaged shops and architectural sites in the area.

The sites would have been completely submerged by the Amman River from 1964 to 1971, which usually flooded the surrounding areas during winter. However, the river has been completely covered and paved over.

On Monday, Murad Kalaldeh, a professor of architecture and urban planning at Al-Balqa Applied University, stressed that the site should be preserved, arguing all excavations and attempts to remove the bathhouse should stop.

He told Roya News the site is part of history and separating it from its original location would make it "lose its soul”.

Yazid Alayyan, director of the Department of Antiquities, has said the current project will not disturb the archaeological site.

He said the Antiquities Department is checking all infrastructure projects throughout the Kingdom to ensure such sites are protected while the needs for infrastructure goals are met.