While according to the Catholic Encyclopedia, the Cenacle (the site of the Last Supper) in Jerusalem was the "first Christian church," Jordan's Aqaba Roman Church is considered to be the world's first purpose-built Christian church. This historic 3rd-century church was unearthed by a group of archaeologists in June 1998 and from pottery found in its foundations, is believed to have been built sometime in the late 3rd or the beginning of the 4th century. This makes it older than the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, both of which were built in the late 320s. The church was built of mud-brick over stone foundations, with probably vaulted nave and aisles, and arched doorways. It had the shape of a large three-aisled basilica, with a narthex, and oriented on an east-west axis. Remains of a staircase suggest that it had a second storey. The nave ended in a chancel area followed by a rectangular apse. As shown in the photos here, the ruined building was filled by wind-blown sand, which no doubt helped preserve its walls to a remarkable height.

It is mentioned as the oldest purpose-built christian church in the world, slightly older than the temples in Jerusalem or Bethlehem. Another peculiarity is that it is built of bricks. No matter how rare monument it is, nobody cares about the place. There is rubbish between the walls, and I am afraid there will be nothing in 50 years due to wind and rain. Free entry through hole in the fence. 4 stars for the own monument, 2 stars for care for this place.

Very interesting site right next to the bus station. It is considered to be the world's oldest-known purpose-built Christian church. A short visit to see the site itself is enough and you can get more information on Wikipedia. The site is made from mud and rocks. Very fragile. Not much more info on it but interesting to check out as you visit Aqaba.

Incredible that this is not rated yet. Should be promoted!!!! Considered to be the world's oldest-known purpose-built Christian church. Its first phase was dated between 293 and 303, which makes it older than the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.... Behind the movenpick hotel

As much as I LOVE the fact that this was the world's first purpose built church, I am quite disappointed that the sign next to the church is damaged. If I walked past it, I wouldn't know what it is. Although I love this place

(Translated by Google) It is a pity that this monument is not properly prepared or even marked. Rather, the greater importance of the symbolism of the oldest church in the world. (Original) Szkoda że ten zabytek nie jest należycie przygotowany ani nawet oznaczony. Raczej większe znaczenie symbolika najstarszego kościoła na świecie.

Aqaba archeological Church is a historic 3rd-century church located in Aqaba. It was unearthed in 1998 by a group of archaeologists and is considered to be the world's oldest-known purpose-built Christian church. Wikipedia

I wouldn't go out of your way to see it, but if you have time, take a look.

Just next to the Late Roman Church, there is a nicely preserved square tower flanked by sections of the curtain wall that protected Byzantine Aila. This feature of a later period is easily overlooked as the information sign only focus on the church remains. Another section (and longer) of the same defensive wall continues west of here past the road.

It's a small pile of rocks, mostly taped off.

Amazing place to see the one of the old church.

Interesting ruins, you can only see them from the road

Nothing to see, tiney little speck of old walls. There is a fence, you can't enter it. Don't waste your time

(Translated by Google) Wonderful (Original) رااااااائع

(Translated by Google) fantastic place (Original) مكان رائع

Greate

one of the best places to visit in Aqaba

4th century roman church not being preserved very well as a site of interest good to see though

It wasn't that good, cause there is a fence around it and not much to see. Even it sounds pretty interesting.