In the heart of Madaba, within the archaeological park that houses its most prominent Byzantine landmarks, lies Sunna’s Church, near the Church of the Martyrs and the Church of the Apostles. It serves as one of the sites that reveals to visitors the beginnings of Christianity’s spread in the city and its development over time.

This church dates back to the 6th century AD, when it was built during the Byzantine era. What remains of its structure reveals a fully-fledged church, comprising a main nave, two side aisles, an apse on the eastern side, and priestly pews—a design reflecting the prevailing ecclesiastical style of that period.

Among the most striking features for visitors are its mosaic floors, parts of which are still preserved today, bearing rich and diverse decorations. These mosaics depict symbolic scenes drawn from Christian tradition, such as representations of the rivers of Paradise, alongside vibrant geometric and floral patterns, giving the place a spiritual and artistic dimension.

The scenes are not limited to religious symbolism; they extend to depict aspects of daily life. Hunting scenes can be observed within an agricultural setting resembling vineyards, a touch of artistry that blends reality and symbolism. The floors are divided into integrated panels, reflecting the precision of planning and the exquisite execution of Byzantine mosaic art.

Despite the church’s simple design compared to the grander churches of Madaba, this simplicity lends it a unique character, bringing visitors closer to the details of life during that period. Its name, “Church of the Craftsmen,” is linked to the “Craftsmen” family who owned the land on which it was discovered, adding a social dimension to the site’s history alongside its religious significance.

Although large parts of the church did not survive entirely, what remained underwent cleaning and restoration work, in which students from the Madaba School of Mosaic Art participated, contributing to the preservation of this heritage and making it accessible to visitors.

Visiting Sunna’s church is not just a tour of an archaeological site, but an opportunity to discover a different side of Madaba, where art meets daily life, and simplicity is integrated with historical depth, in an experience that gives the visitor a broader understanding of this city’s journey through the centuries.