Known as the “Lost City”, “Pink City” and even the “Rose Red City”, Petra is a stunningly beautiful ancient city located in the desert canyon of South Jordan. Its extraordinary ombre ruby sandstone structure and extensive ancient architecture will enchant you. The dusty pink stone facade and the surrounding magical desert are famous among the Seven Wonders of the World. If you visit Jordan or Israel, then you must visit Petra.
If you visit Israel, you have the unique opportunity to include Petra and Jordan in your itinerary. Jordan and Israel share a border and the two countries have friendly relations, so crossing the border for a visit is an easy process. If you have limited time you can fit in a day trip to Petra, but there are also Petra tours from Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, or Ailat.
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History of Petra
A visit to Petra gives a unique glimpse of ancient history. The city was once the prosperous capital of the Nabataeans, who are believed to have settled there in 9000 BC. Situated between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, Petra was once a major stopping point for the central caravan of the Silk Road and represented the center between Egypt and Arabia.
Inside the ancient site, you will see the remnants of an innovative water system from the Roman and Byzantine eras, which is particularly impressive due to the arid, desert conditions. While visiting Petra you will also be amazed at the architecture, especially the intricate carvings in the rock mouths, the ancient tombs, the churches, and the archaeological explorations of the copper mines – all of which provide an interesting insight into the history of the city. Among Petra’s most famous sites are the iconic Treasury Fed, also known as Al-Khazneh, and Siq, which you must take a long, rocky path to enter the city.
Natural Beauty
Nestled in the dramatic mountains and ravines, the city of Petra was carved into the rock mouth by the ancient Nabataean people. Entering the city is a magical experience, and each step reveals a new wonder, visitors are amazed to see the intricate carvings of stone when they weave along the hidden path. The area is well-preserved and does not allow any type of motor vehicle to enter, meaning the city is relatively untouchable compared to modernity.
Safe and Easy
Since Petra is a protected historical site and brings tourism to the region, it is highly preferred by the Jordanian government, which has ensured that it is both accessible and safe for tourists. The country relies heavily on the tourism industry and welcomes international visitors to visit this unique and magical site. Joining Petra Travel makes it easy to enter the area safely and is a great way to learn more about the history of Lost City.
Cultural
The people now living in the vicinity of Petra and the surrounding wadi rum, known as the Bedouins, are both a permanent and nomadic community who have learned to adapt permanently to the harsh desert conditions. The Bedouins are famous for their hospitality and warmth culture and deep understanding of their natural environment. Over time, they have managed to strike a unique balance between integrating into Jordanian society and the local economy and maintaining their old traditions. A visit to Petra not only connects you with unrivaled beauty and architectural history, also gives you the opportunity to learn about the life and culture of the region.
Under the Stars
Visiting Petra is an unprecedented experience whenever you visit, but there is something special about the Pink City at night. If you go through the siege after dark, you will see more than 1,500 candles on the way to the treasury. This peaceful and positively captivating experience is the perfect way to end your visit.
Mountain View
The city of Petra is surrounded by several hills that visitors can easily climb to the top. If you have to walk a lot, it is better to bring reliable hiking boots if you plan to visit. When it rises too high, you should drink plenty – water, that is. It’s good to appreciate the deceptively quiet view of the Arabian landscape while you’re hydrated.
Discovery Underground
Archaeologists have reported that only 15% of the ancients have been discovered, the vast majority still remain underground. Recently, a huge monument has been discovered which has now been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monument is twice as wide as the Olympic-sized swimming pool, and excavations are underway. There is still much to be seen in Petra, and in this wondrous ancient city, only expectations are raised about what scholars will discover next.