Toumba’s Top 7 Things to Do in Amman, Jordan
Toumba’s Top 7 Things to Do in Amman, Jordan
The breakout producer pinpoints a range of must-visit places within the Jordan capital.
Amman-based producer Toumba is one of this year's stars within the underground electronic scene, with releases via Hessle Audio and Nervous Horizon cementing his rise. He's created a distinct sound that marries traditional Jordanian folk music with UK club tropes, placing him at the forefront of a wave of producers from the Arab world. As an artist who draws from his culture and heritage, he's also consistently platformed creativity within Jordan. Earlier this year, he used his Trippin Mix to showcase talent from the Arab world, drawing for tracks from the likes of Abadir, 3Phaz and Rozzma.
Aside from producing, he works as a curator at MNFA – an events space in Amman. Furthermore, he has a residency at the cultural organisation MMAG Foundation, which provides artists in the Levant with a space to exhibit their works.
Prior to this list, the producer created a map of the best places for food and drinks in Amman. Below, he extends his knowledge on where to go within the Jordan capital, spotlighting markets, skateparks, art spaces and more.
In this Guide
MNFA
“MNFA is the mecca of the underground scene in Amman. It’s the place to hit up if you’re out for music, great company and the opportunity to let go and be yourself. Its wonderfully curated lineups constantly introduce new sounds to the community and pushes the boundaries of what is expected from a club night in Amman. It’s situated in a previously unused car park two floors underground where there is no phone signal, forcing you to be fully present in the moment. The setup is both brilliant and minimal, making it very pleasant to be in while not taking the attention away from the music; rather, enhancing the listening experience. It’s not the place to go to if you’re looking for typical, predictable dance music, but if you’re willing to broaden your horizon and experience a top-tier club night. [MNFA is] easily outdoing most of what I’ve experienced in Europe.”
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Amman Citadel
“Out of all the historical spots in Amman, the Citadel has to be my favourite. It’s not a hidden gem by any means but the nature, the ruins, the history and the unparalleled views make it a must-visit for anyone coming to Amman.”
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7hills Skatepark
“7hills is a skateboarder-run, grassroots, non-profit organisation based in Jordan. The skatepark they built has become a hub for the youth of Amman, especially the skateboarding community. If you’re into skateboarding and just want to be involved in local grassroots workshops, get to know the community or have a great time in the sun, it’s a great spot to visit and meet the people who run it while you’re there.”
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The Royal Automobile Museum
“The Royal Automobile Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts as well as history enthusiasts who want a different and interesting way of experiencing a chunk of the country’s past. The museum features over 80 of the late King Hussein’s car and motorcycle collection, some of which date back to 1909. Along with the cars, which are still in pristine condition, you get some information about the historical importance of each vehicle to the king and the country, as well as information about the cars themselves.”
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The Spilled Milk
“The Spilled Milk is an arts space in Jabal Amman, co-founded by Youth’s Dijit. The space acts as a hub for unique art and design work by predominantly local artists, with the aim of injecting a dose of novelty into Amman’s art scene and providing a source of income for independent artists. One of their first collaborations was with Terso, a project selling vintage Egyptian movie posters, some dating back to the 50s and 60s. They also have a selection of records on sale handpicked by Dijit himself. This shop is definitely worth the visit if you want to buy some unique local pieces.”
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Friday Market
“This is the local flea market in Amman. It opens every week from Thursday afternoon to Friday night. It’s everything a flea market should be: busy, loud, messy and full of hidden gems. This one is for vintage, secondhand and novelty fashion enthusiasts who enjoy the process of finding good pieces as much as buying them. You can spend hours here and not finish the whole thing, but you’re guaranteed to leave with a couple of pieces that will make you feel proud of the effort you put in and make you want to hit it up again next week.”
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Robin For Silver & Orientals
“Robin is unparalleled when it comes to finding unique jewellery pieces in Amman. This is not the place to visit if you’re looking for ultra-modern, avant-garde pieces, but you’ll find the most amazing antique silver and gold jewellery that could give the best modern designers a run for their money. Some of the older 100 to 200-year-old plus pieces will have a hefty price tag on them, but you’ll be able to find your next statement piece for a reasonable price here too.”
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