The Ultimate Travel Guide to the Ancient City of Petra, Jordan

Petra, located in southern Jordan, is one of the world's most fascinating and iconic ancient cities. Carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs, Petra's intricate architecture and rich history make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Known as the "Rose City," Petra was once a thriving center of trade, religion, and culture, and today, it remains an awe-inspiring testament to the ancient Nabatean civilization. 

With this ultimate travel guide, you will discover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Petra, from the best time to visit the top sights to see and insider tips for making the most of your time in this breathtaking wonderland.

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The history of the lost city of Petra, Jordan - A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The lost city of Petra, Jordan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has captivated the world for centuries. In the southwestern desert of Jordan, Petra is an ancient city built by the Nabataeans, an Arab tribe, around 300 B.C. It was an important trading center due to its strategic location on the trade routes between Arabia, Egypt and Syria-Phoenicia. 

Petra is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world and has been featured in many films and books. The city was built into a mountain range with hundreds of tombs, temples, monuments and other structures carved directly into the rock face. The most famous structure is Al Khazneh, or "The Treasury," which stands 40 meters high and is believed to have been built as a tomb for a Nabataean king. 

The Nabataeans were a nomadic people who settled in Petra around the 6th century B.C. They were skilled traders and used their knowledge of water management to create an oasis in the desert by diverting water from nearby springs into channels that ran through the city. This allowed them to grow crops and raise livestock, which enabled them to become wealthy merchants. 

The Nabataeans also developed an advanced system of writing which allowed them to keep records of their trading activities. They also developed sophisticated engineering techniques such as terracing hillsides for agriculture and constructing dams to control flooding from seasonal rains. These techniques enabled them to build elaborate structures, such as tombs and temples, which still stand today. 

In 106 AD, Petra was conquered by the Roman Empire, who renamed it "Raqmu" or "City of Light" due to its impressive monuments carved into sandstone cliffs illuminated by sunlight during dawn and dusk hours. The Romans used Petra as a military base for their campaigns against Arabia but eventually abandoned it after several years due to its harsh climate and lack of resources. 

For centuries, Petra remained largely forgotten until Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812, who disguised himself as an Arab scholar to gain access to the site without arousing suspicion from local Bedouin tribesmen who guarded it closely at that time. Since then, archaeological excavations have revealed much more about this ancient city, including its unique architecture, engineering feats and religious beliefs, making it one of Jordan's most popular tourist destinations today. 

Petra was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 due to its importance as one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Middle Eastern architecture, with structures dating back over 2000 years ago still standing today. It has since become one of Jordan's most iconic landmarks, with millions visiting each year, eager to explore this lost city's secrets first-hand!

Where is Petra located?

Petra is located in the Ma'an Governorate of Jordan, roughly halfway between Jerusalem and Amman. It is about 900 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level in a valley known as Wadi Musa (Valley of Moses). The city covers an area of about 264 square kilometers (102 square miles), making it one of the largest archaeological sites in the Middle East. 

The most famous structure in Petra is Al Khazneh (The Treasury), carved into a sandstone cliff face and stands 40 meters (130 feet) tall. Other notable monuments include:

• The Monastery (Ad-Deir) stands 50 meters (165 feet) tall.
• The Great Temple.
• Qasr al Bint Faroun (Palace of Pharaoh's Daughter).

Many smaller monuments are scattered throughout Petra, such as tombs, temples, altars, baths, cisterns, amphitheaters, and colonnaded streets. 

Petra has been inhabited since ancient times but declined after an earthquake destroyed much of it in 363 AD. It remained largely abandoned until 1812, when Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it during his travels through Syria and Palestine. Since then, it has become one of Jordan's most popular tourist attractions, with over 500,000 visitors annually.

Why should travelers visit Petra?

Travelers should visit Petra for a variety of reasons. This ancient city in Jordan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most stunning archaeological sites. From its impressive buildings carved from sandstone to its breathtaking views, Petra is an experience that will stay with travelers long after they leave. 

One of the most striking features of Petra is its architecture. The Nabataeans built the city over 2000 years ago, and it is known for its unique rock-cut structures. The most famous of these is Al Khazneh (The Treasury), carved into the side of a mountain and stands 40 meters high. The intricate details and vibrant colors make it an awe-inspiring sight to behold. 

In addition to its incredible architecture, Petra also offers travelers stunning views. From the top of Al Khazneh, visitors can take in sweeping views of the surrounding desert landscape. The city also has several trails that lead to hidden canyons and other archaeological sites, allowing travellers to explore this ancient city in depth. 

Another reason why travelers should visit Petra is that it offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore the ruins of this once-great city and learn about its history from local guides who are knowledgeable about the area's culture and traditions. Several museums in Petra provide insight into the culture and history of this region, as well as interactive activities for kids, such as camel rides or donkey treks through the desert landscape. 

Finally, Petra provides visitors with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and leisure activities, such as shopping in local markets or dining at one of the many restaurants in town. Several hotels located near Petra offer comfortable accommodations for those looking to stay overnight or longer.

Why Petra's Monastery is so special

Petra's Monastery is a magnificent site in the ancient city of Petra, Jordan. The Monastery, also known as Al Deir, is an impressive structure carved out of the sandstone cliffs that surround the city. It is one of the most famous monuments in Petra and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The Monastery was built by the Nabataeans, a nomadic tribe who lived in the area during the first century B.C. It is believed to have been used as a temple or religious center for worship and ceremonies. The structure comprises two large courtyards surrounded by walls and columns intricately decorated with carvings and reliefs depicting scenes from Nabataean mythology. 

The most striking feature of Petra's Monastery is its size. At over 50 meters tall and spanning over 300 meters, it is one of the largest monuments from antiquity still standing today. Considering its age, it is also incredibly well-preserved; many features remain intact despite centuries of wear and tear from wind, sandstorms, and other natural elements. 

The architecture of Petra's Monastery is also remarkable. Its design combines Roman and Greek architecture; its columns are similar to those found in Roman temples, while its arches resemble those seen in Greek temples. The exterior walls are decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Nabataean mythology, such as gods, goddesses, animals, plants, and geometric shapes. 

In addition to its impressive size and architecture, Petra's Monastery has another unique feature: it was built on top of an earlier structure known as "The Treasury", which was constructed by the Nabataeans around 100 BC. This makes it one of the oldest structures still standing today; it provides insight into how people lived during this period and gives us a glimpse into their culture and beliefs. 

Finally, Petra's Monastery has become an important symbol for Jordanians; it serves as a reminder of their rich history and culture and their resilience in the face of adversity. It has become a popular tourist destination for visitors worldwide who come to marvel at its beauty and learn more about this ancient civilization.

What is the Petra Archaeological Park?

The Petra Archaeological Park is one of the world's most fascinating and important archaeological sites. It was once a bustling metropolis of the ancient Nabataean civilization in the southern Jordanian desert. The city was first established around 312 BC and flourished until its decline in the mid-7th century A.D. Today, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors yearly.

The Petra Archaeological Park covers an area of over 40 square kilometers and contains hundreds of monuments, including tombs, temples, palaces, and other structures. The most famous structure is Al Khazneh (the Treasury), carved out of solid rock and stands over 40 meters tall. Other notable monuments include the Street of Facades, Ad-Deir (the Monastery), and the Great Temple complex.

Petra was an important center for trade during its heyday. It was located along major trading routes connecting Arabia with Syria and Egypt, allowing it to become a wealthy city. It also served as an important religious center for paganism and early Christianity. During this time, Petra became known for its artistry in stone carving; many monuments were decorated with intricate carvings depicting gods and goddesses from various religions.

Today, visitors to Petra can explore these monuments as well as enjoy activities such as hiking through the Siq (a narrow canyon leading to Al Khazneh), climbing up to Ad-Deir (the Monastery), or visiting nearby attractions like Little Petra or Wadi Rum (a desert valley). Visitors can also participate in educational activities such as guided tours or lectures about the history of Petra or its architecture.

Archeological excavations conducted in Petra

Since its rediscovery, Petra has been the subject of many archaeological excavations, which have uncovered numerous artifacts and structures that shed light on the city's rich history and culture. Some of the most notable archaeological excavations conducted in Petra include:

• The Great Temple: This temple was excavated between 1993 and 1997 and is one of the largest structures in Petra. It is believed to have been built in the 1st century A.D. and was likely used for religious and political purposes.
• The Monastery: This structure was discovered in the early 20th century and is believed to have been built in the 3rd century B.C. It is one of Petra's most impressive rock-cut structures and is considered a religious center.
• The Petra Church: This church was excavated in the early 1990s and is believed to have been built in the 6th century A.D. It is one of Petra's few early Christian structures and contains beautiful mosaics and frescoes.
• The Siq: This narrow gorge leading into Petra was excavated in the early 20th century and revealed many rock-cut tombs and other structures. The Siq was likely used as a ceremonial entrance to the city.

These excavations, along with many others, have helped to uncover Petra's rich history and culture and have made it one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world. Visitors to Petra can now explore these structures and artifacts for themselves and gain a deeper understanding of this ancient city and its people.

What type of architecture is Petra renowned for?

Petra is most famous for its rock-cut architecture, which consists of buildings and monuments carved directly into the sandstone cliffs. This type of architecture is unique to Petra and has made it one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.

The rock-cut architecture of Petra was created by carving out large blocks of sandstone from the cliffs and then using them to construct buildings and monuments. The Nabataeans used various techniques to carve these blocks, including chiseling, drilling, and hammering. This allowed them to create intricate details on their structures that are still visible today. The most impressive example of this type of architecture can be found at Al Khazneh (the Treasury), a grandiose temple carved into a cliff face that stands over 40 meters high. 

The Nabataeans were also skilled engineers who used their knowledge to construct elaborate water systems throughout Petra. These systems collect rainwater from nearby mountains and channel it into cisterns and reservoirs throughout the city, providing water for drinking, bathing, and irrigation. This allowed Petra to become a thriving city despite its location in an arid desert environment. 

In addition to rock-cut architecture and engineering feats, Petra is also known for its stunning landscape. The city is surrounded by dramatic sandstone cliffs full of caves, crevices, and other natural formations carved out over thousands of years by wind and water erosion. These features give Petra an otherworldly feel that has captivated visitors for centuries.

What it's like to stay in a Bedouin camp in Petra

Staying in a Bedouin camp in Petra can be a unique and memorable experience for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and history of the area. Bedouins are nomadic Arab people who have lived in the region for centuries and have a rich history and culture.

Several Bedouin camps near Petra offer a range of accommodations, from traditional Bedouin tents to modern amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The camps are usually set in stunning desert landscapes, with views of the surrounding mountains and rock formations.

Staying in a Bedouin camp allows travelers to experience the traditional Bedouin way of life, which includes enjoying local cuisine, participating in cultural activities like music and dance, and learning about the history and traditions of the Bedouin people. Many Bedouin camps also offer guided tours of Petra, which can provide unique insights into the history and significance of the ancient city.

One of the highlights of staying in a Bedouin camp is the opportunity to stargaze in the clear desert skies. Bedouins deeply understand the stars and constellations and often share their knowledge with guests, making for a magical and educational experience.

Overall, staying in a Bedouin camp in Petra can be an unforgettable experience for travelers who want to connect with the local culture and history of the region and experience the beauty of the desert landscape uniquely and authentically.

When is the best time to visit Petra in Jordan?

The best time to visit Petra, Jordan, is spring and autumn, which fall between March to May and September to November, respectively. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day and 10-15°C (50-59°F) at night.

Visiting Petra during the spring and autumn seasons also means avoiding the extreme heat and crowds of tourists during the summer months. In the summer, temperatures can soar up to 40°C (104°F) and above, making it difficult to explore the ancient city comfortably. Additionally, the high temperatures and influx of tourists can make for long lines and crowded conditions, detracting from the experience.

Winter is another option for visiting Petra, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night, and rain and occasional snowfall can make some of the trails and sites inaccessible. However, the winter months of December to February can be an excellent time to visit for those who are okay with the cold weather and want to experience the beauty of Petra with fewer tourists around.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Petra depends on individual preferences and priorities. But for most travelers, visiting during the spring or autumn offers the perfect balance of comfortable weather and manageable crowds, making it the ideal time to explore this ancient and fascinating city.

How much does it cost to visit Petra?

The cost of visiting Petra depends on a few factors, such as the length of stay, the type of ticket purchased, and whether you plan to hire a guide. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with visiting Petra:

• Entrance Fees: The most basic entrance ticket to Petra is the one-day ticket, which costs 50 Jordanian Dinar (JOD), approximately $70 USD. However, two-day, three-day and even one-week tickets are available, which can offer better value for those planning to stay longer.
• Tour Guide Fees: Hiring a tour guide is optional but can significantly enhance your experience of Petra. The cost of a tour guide can vary depending on the duration of the tour and the guide's expertise, but generally, expect to pay between 50-100 JOD ($70-140 USD) for a half-day tour and 100-200 JOD ($140-280 USD) for a full-day tour.
• Horse and Carriage Rides: Horse and carriage rides are available in Petra to help visitors get around the vast site. The one-way ride costs vary depending on the distance covered but expect to pay around 20-30 JOD ($28-42 USD).
• Food and Accommodation: Petra has several restaurants and cafes, with prices ranging from around 5-20 JOD ($7-28 USD) per meal. For accommodation, there are several hotels and Bedouin camps in the area, with prices ranging from around 20-150 JOD ($28-210 USD) per night.

The cost of visiting Petra can vary depending on individual preferences and travel style. But as a general guideline, visitors should budget around $100-150 USD per day, including entrance fees, food, and accommodation.

How safe is it to visit Petra?

Like most tourist destinations in Jordan, Petra is considered a safe place for tourists. The country's government and security forces take the safety of visitors seriously and work to ensure that tourists can enjoy their visit without any major safety concerns.

Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, so visitors should take necessary precautions, such as keeping their valuables close to them and being aware of their surroundings. However, violent crime against tourists is rare.

The Jordanian government also has a strong counter-terrorism program and works closely with other countries intelligence agencies to ensure the safety and security of tourists and locals alike.

Visitors should always follow basic safety precautions when traveling, such as avoiding dark and isolated areas, staying alert in crowded areas, and keeping valuables secure. It's also good to check for travel advisories or warnings from your home country's government before planning your trip to Petra.

Overall, Petra is a safe destination, and visitors can feel confident enjoying all the unique experiences and sites the ancient city offers.

What is the easiest way to travel to Petra from Amman?

The easiest and most popular way to travel to Petra from Amman is by road. Here are a few options for traveling by road to Petra:

• Private Car/Taxi: The most convenient option is to hire a private car or taxi for the journey, which takes around 3-4 hours. Many tour operators in Amman offer this service, and prices can range from around 70-100 JOD ($100-140 USD) one way, depending on the vehicle type and number of passengers.
• Public Bus: Daily public buses run between Amman and Petra. The JETT Bus Company operates air-conditioned buses with several departures per day. The journey takes around 3-4 hours and costs approximately 12-15 JOD ($17-21 USD) one way.
• Shared Taxi: Shared taxis, known as "servees," are a popular mode of transportation in Jordan. These taxis depart from various locations in Amman, including the Abdali Bus Station and the JETT Bus Station, and are a more economical option than private taxis. However, they can be slower and less comfortable, as they may make multiple stops to pick up and drop off passengers.
• Rental Car: Another option is to rent a car and drive to Petra from Amman. However, this option requires a valid international driver's license and knowledge of driving in Jordan, which can be challenging due to different driving laws and practices.

Ultimately, the easiest way to travel to Petra from Amman depends on individual preferences and travel style. Private taxis and rental cars offer the most convenience and flexibility, while public buses and shared taxis are more economical but less comfortable.