Petra, the Rose-Red City, is one of the world’s most stunning archaeological sites. Hidden in the Jordanian desert, this ancient Nabatean city boasts intricate rock-cut architecture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Here are the top 10 places to explore in Petra:
1. The Treasury - Al-Khazneh
The Treasury is Petra’s most famous landmark, known for its magnificent rock-cut façade standing 40 meters tall. Believed to be a royal tomb, it features intricate Greek-style carvings. At sunrise and sunset, the rose-colored stone glows, creating a breathtaking sight. Don’t miss the Petra by Night experience, where candles illuminate the Treasury, making it an unforgettable visit.
2. The Siq
As-Siq or Siq is a mystical corridor that leads to Petra. Siq when translated to English means ‘shaft’ and was formed when a mountain broke into two due to tectonic forces. A walk through this corridor will be nothing less than magical and with walls towering over your head, it will be slightly scary too. But it’s all worth it as As-Siq is one of the most important and best places to visit in Petra.
3. The Royal Tombs
The Royal Tombs is a series of large mausoleums with majestic facades that overlook the city center and the main walkway of Petra. These are situated on the western slope of Al-Khubtha mountain. These were constructed by the Nabateans from rose-red sandstone over 2,300 years ago.
3. The Monastery Ad-Deir
The Monastery, located at the top of an 800-step climb, is one of Petra’s most impressive structures. Larger than the Treasury, it features a massive rock-carved façade with fewer intricate details. The hike up offers stunning views, and at the top, visitors can enjoy tea shops and panoramic scenery of the surrounding mountains and Wadi Araba desert.
4. Colonnaded Street
You have to see it to believe it. If that is how you roll then Colonnaded Street is one of the places to go in Petra. Built somewhere around 106 AD the street depicts the Roman influence on the city. Following the standard pattern of the typical east-west oriented decamanus, the Colonnaded Street has shops on both sides and you can’t miss this one.
5. Petra Theatre
The Petra Theatre is the first Nabatean theatre dating back almost 2000 years. It lies close to the heart of Petra, Jordan. It offers excellent views of the surrounding canyon, hills, and several famous Petra rock tombs. One can also climb up the mountain opposite the theatre for marvelous views of the entire structure. It is an excellent place for photography.
6. Qasr al-Bint
A 76-foot structure that is believed to be the most important temple in Petra is still very much alive and one of the most fascinating places to visit in Petra. It is confirmed that the walls of Qasr Al-Bint were once painted in bright colors and were embellished with the carvings of the busts of many gods. The Qasr al-Bint is the only freestanding building in Petra and one of the most important Petra attractions.
7. The Street of Facades
The Street of Facades is a row of massive tombs and dwellings carved into the rock along Petra’s main trail. These tombs belonged to high-ranking Nabatean officials. The unique carvings and weathered beauty of the facades tell the story of Nabatean culture and architecture.
8. Siq al-Barid
Located just 9 km from Petra, Little Petra is a smaller but equally fascinating Nabatean site. It features carved facades, stairways, and an ancient painted dining hall. Known as a trading post on the Silk Road, this lesser-visited site offers a peaceful experience away from the crowds while still showcasing Petra’s remarkable craftsmanship.
9. High Place Of Sacrifice
If you want the best views of Jordan then High Place of Sacrifice is the one place in Petra that you can’t miss. One of the most approachable and accessible high places to visit in Petra, Jordan the High Place of Sacrifice is a place you can reach by hiking.
10. The Great Temple
It is one of the biggest ruins in Petra. The Great Temple is the largest freestanding building discovered in Petra, covering an area of 7560 square m. Evidence found by archaeologists indicates that the temple was around 19 feet tall. The complex has two levels, a lower one and an upper one.
