“A rose-red city half as old as time.” – John William Burgon
Petra, Jordan’s crown jewel, is one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological and historical sites. Carved into pink-hued cliffs by the ancient Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, Petra stands as a testament to ingenuity, resilience, and architectural brilliance.
Nestled in the rugged mountains of southern Jordan near Wadi Musa, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
Region: Ma’an Governorate, southern Jordan
Distance from Amman: Approx. 240 km (3-hour drive)
Nearby Town: Wadi Musa
Founded as early as the 4th century BC, Petra thrived as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. The Nabataeans were master traders who turned Petra into a flourishing center along the ancient spice and incense routes connecting Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.
Petra was later annexed by the Roman Empire in 106 AD and flourished until earthquakes and shifting trade routes led to its decline. It remained largely unknown to the Western world until its rediscovery by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812.
| Landmark | Description |
|---|---|
| The Siq | A narrow, winding gorge that serves as the dramatic entrance to Petra. |
| The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) | The iconic façade carved from pink sandstone, believed to be a royal tomb or temple. |
| The Monastery (Ad-Deir) | A massive structure atop 800 steps offering panoramic views. |
| The Royal Tombs | An impressive row of intricately carved tombs with Roman and Nabataean influences. |
| The Street of Facades | A long row of monumental Nabataean tombs on the cliff face. |
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November)
Opening Hours: 6 AM – 6 PM (summer), 6 AM – 4 PM (winter)
Entrance Fee:
50 JD (1-day pass for foreign visitors)
Discounted rates for multiple-day visits
Petra by Night: Don’t miss the magical candle-lit experience every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening.
Hiking to the Monastery or High Place of Sacrifice
Camel or horse rides within the site
Exploring lesser-known trails with a local Bedouin guide
Enjoying traditional food in Wadi Musa
👁️ Visitor Count: 2310