Jordan’s capital, Amman, still bears Greek influence dating back to the Hellenistic era, when it was named Philadelphia by Ptolemy II after its conquest in 285 BC.

Today, significant monuments from that period remain across Jordan, contributing to a sense of familiarity toward Greeks, described as “the descendants of Alexander the Great,” according to Christos Michalakelis, president of Study in Greece –  which promotes Greek universities internationally – and professor at Harokopio University.

Michalakelis led representatives from five Greek universities on a recent visit to 11 private high schools in Jordan to present undergraduate and graduate programs in Greek and English. “Of course in Greek; do not be surprised. Many here know Greek,” he said. Around 3,500 Jordanians have studied in Greece since the 1970s.

Former Athens University student Ahmed Al-Amir said his studies “gave me important tools for life and my career,” adding, “If I could turn back time, I would again choose Greece.” 

Source: Ekathimerini.com