A sprawling city spread over 19 hills, or jebels, Amman is the modern, as well as the ancient capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Known as Rabbath-Ammon during prehistoric periods and later as Philadelphia, the ancient city that was once part of the Decapolis league now boasts a population of around 1.5 million.Often referred to as the white city due to its low-rise stone houses that form a canvas of overlapping beiges, ochres and whites, Amman offers a range of historical sites and modern facilities that are complemented by its welcoming people. Amman is a busy commercial and administrative center with many fine hotels, restaurants, art galleries and museums. Shopping amenities vary from old markets and souqs full of gold and spices, to modern boutiques offering local handicrafts and imported fashions.