Overlooking the clear waters of the Red Sea, the port city of Aqaba is known today for its vibrant energy and tourism—but it also holds a remarkable spiritual treasure. During the Byzantine period, Jordan experienced a flourishing of religious and civic life, with Christianity spreading rapidly throughout the region. It was in this context that archaeologists in Aqaba uncovered what is believed to be the world’s oldest known church, dating back to the late 3rd century AD. This extraordinary structure predates even the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, both from the 4th century. Aqaba’s ancient church is a testimony to the early and enduring presence of Christianity in the region, revealing a sacred legacy that goes beyond the waves. It is a place where the roots of the faith reach deep into history, inviting visitors to reflect on the beginnings of a movement that transformed the world.