Balila

For the Italian boy hero, see Balilla. For the dish, see Balila (dish).
Balila
Coordinates: 32°33′0″N 35°51′0″E / 32.55000°N 35.85000°E / 32.55000; 35.85000Coordinates: 32°33′0″N 35°51′0″E / 32.55000°N 35.85000°E / 32.55000; 35.85000
Country  Jordan
Province Irbid Governorate
Municipality established 1927
Government
  Type Municipality
  Mayor Magableh
Population (2007)
  Total 12,000
Time zone GMT +2
  Summer (DST) +3 (UTC)
Area code(s) +(962)2

Balila is a town in far northwest Jordan, between Irbid and Jerash located in the Jerash Governorate. It covers 40 km², and has a population of over 8,000 people.

Name

Balila is Turkish for "high point". It is located at the foot of the mountains bordering Syria known as Huran, which translates to "flat land".

History

Balila is located near the border of Syria and Israel. The Roman Empire utilized Balila as a remote hub to link between their colonies.

Economy

Balila's economy relies on differante jobes in public and private sectores, local commerce and farming.

Culture

The town is famous for the ritual poetry recited in wedding ceremonies and public affairs. The Dabke, an Arab folk dance, has had several notable dancers from Balilia.

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