Balqa

Balqa is one of the twelve governorates of Jordan. Its capital is the city of Al-Salt, located on the western side of the country, northwest of Amman. The governorate sits on the Balqa Plateau and includes parts of Jordan’s western highlands, with landscapes ranging from cultivated valleys to rugged hills.

Geography and climate in Balqa are shaped by its highland setting. The area experiences a Mediterranean-influenced climate with four distinct seasons. Its terrain supports agriculture in valleys and terraced farming on slopes, with crops such as olives, fruits, and vegetables benefiting from the seasonal rainfall and irrigation.

Historically, Balqa has been inhabited since ancient times and contains remnants from various periods, including Nabataean, Roman, and Ottoman eras. The city of Al-Salt is notable for its architectural heritage and its role as a regional cultural and commercial center in the Ottoman and early modern periods.

Economy and development in Balqa combine agriculture, trade, and services. Agriculture remains important, complemented by small-scale industry, crafts, and growing service sectors in urban centers. The governorate also hosts educational and cultural institutions, contributing to the region’s human capital and tourism potential, particularly related to historic architecture, traditional markets, and natural scenery.

Administration is headed by a governor appointed by the central government and includes multiple municipalities and local councils. Balqa’s population is diverse, with urban and rural communities concentrated in Al-Salt and surrounding towns, reflecting Jordan’s broader social and cultural fabric.