PETRA, JORDAN – STEP BACK IN TIME TO AN ANCIENT WORLD OF WONDER
Petra is an ancient city located in southern Jordan, known for its spectacular rock-cut architecture and historical significance. It is believed to have been established as early as the 4th century BC and was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Today, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world.
The city is famous for its rock-cut architecture, including the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs. These structures were carved directly into the sandstone cliffs and feature intricate designs and details that are still visible today. Petra also features a wide range of other archaeological sites, including temples, theatres, and houses.
Petra is located in a stunning desert landscape and is surrounded by rugged mountains and canyons. Visitors can explore the city on foot or by horseback, and there are a variety of hiking trails and scenic routes to choose from. The most famous of these is the Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to the Treasury and is lined with towering cliffs and intricate carvings.
In addition to its archaeological and historical significance, Petra is also an important cultural and religious site. It is believed to have been a major center of trade and commerce, connecting the East and West, and was an important pilgrimage site for early Christians. Today, the city is still considered a sacred site by many people and is visited by pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.
Popular Tourist Activities
Petra is a popular tourist destination, with many activities and experiences available for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular tourist activities in Petra:
- Exploring the Siq: The Siq is a narrow gorge that leads to the entrance of Petra and is one of the most iconic features of the site. Visitors can walk through the Siq and admire the towering cliffs and intricate carvings along the way.
- Visiting the Treasury: The Treasury is the most famous monument in Petra and is often the first thing visitors see when they enter the city. It is a magnificent structure carved directly into the sandstone cliffs and is adorned with intricate carvings and designs.
- Climbing to the Monastery: The Monastery is one of the largest and most impressive structures in Petra, located at the top of a steep climb. Visitors can hike up to the Monastery and admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Discovering the Royal Tombs: The Royal Tombs are a series of impressive structures carved into the cliffs above Petra. Visitors can explore these tombs and marvel at the intricate carvings and designs.
- Hiking the trails: There are several hiking trails in and around Petra that offer stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. One popular trail is the Al-Khubtha Trail, which leads to a high point overlooking the Treasury and offers panoramic views of the city.
- Attending cultural events: Petra hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, dance performances, and other celebrations. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture and traditions.
Overall, Petra offers a wealth of experiences and activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring ancient ruins to hiking through stunning desert landscapes.
Must See Places in and Around Petra
Petra is a vast and fascinating ancient city with numerous monuments, temples, tombs, and other historical and archaeological sites. Here are some of the must-see places in and around Petra:
- The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): The Treasury is the most iconic and famous monument in Petra. It is a magnificent structure carved directly into the sandstone cliffs and features intricate carvings and designs.
- The Monastery (Ad-Deir): The Monastery is one of the largest and most impressive structures in Petra, located at the top of a steep climb. It is believed to have been a temple or a royal tomb and features impressive carvings and designs.
- The Roman Theater: The Roman Theater is a magnificent amphitheater that could accommodate up to 8,500 spectators. It was carved directly into the rock and was used for various performances and events.
- The Royal Tombs: The Royal Tombs are a series of impressive structures carved into the cliffs above Petra. They are decorated with intricate carvings and designs and are believed to have been the final resting places of important Nabataean figures.
- The Great Temple: The Great Temple was the main religious center of Petra and is believed to have been built in the 1st century AD. It features impressive columns, courtyards, and altars.
- Little Petra (Siq al-Barid): Little Petra is a smaller and less-visited version of Petra, located a few kilometers north of the main site. It features impressive rock-cut tombs, temples, and other structures.
- Wadi Rum: Wadi Rum is a stunning desert valley located about 70 kilometers from Petra. It is known for its dramatic rock formations, sand dunes, and other natural wonders.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Petra is during the spring (March to May) and the autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). During these months, the weather is ideal for exploring the ancient city and hiking through the surrounding desert landscapes.
In the summer months (June to August), the temperatures in Petra can reach up to 40°C (104°F), making it quite hot and uncomfortable for most visitors. Additionally, the summer months tend to be crowded and more expensive due to the peak tourist season.
The winter months (December to February) can also be a good time to visit Petra, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. However, it is important to note that the weather can be unpredictable during this time, with occasional rain and even snowfall in some areas.
