The Burnt Palace is located in Madaba, within the archaeological park, directly adjacent to the Church of the Martyrs. It is one of the most prominent landmarks reflecting the urban life of the city during the Byzantine era. Its construction dates back to the late 6th and early 7th centuries AD, when it served as a luxurious residence, likely belonging to one of Madaba’s wealthy families or prominent figures.

The palace was named after archaeological excavations that revealed clear evidence of fire damage on its floors. Layers of ash and traces of burning were found, indicating a sudden destruction, possibly linked to the 747 AD earthquake that affected the region’s cities.

The palace consists of two main wings separated by a stone-paved inner courtyard, an architectural design reflecting a high level of organization in Byzantine architecture. Its remains, along with the nearby Roman road, provide a clear picture of the ancient city’s layout and the intermingling of residential and religious buildings.

One of the palace’s most distinctive features is its mosaic floors, which are still partially preserved in their original location. These floors depict scenes from daily life alongside geometric, floral, and animal motifs, offering visitors a vivid glimpse into life in Byzantine Madaba.

Today, the Burnt Palace is a prominent stop on the Madaba tourist route. Visitors can wander among the remains of the walls and stone courtyards, exploring the traces of the fire that are still visible in parts of the site, in an experience that blends history, architecture, and mosaic art.