Petra: Jordan's Rose-Red City Carved in Stone (Unforgettable Travel Guide)

I just got back from the jaw-dropping wonder that is Petra, and let me tell you, it’s unlike ANYTHING I’ve ever seen.

Forget the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, because there’s a new wonder of the world calling your name: Petra! This ancient city, carved directly into rose-colored cliffs in Jordan, is unlike ANYTHING you’ve ever seen. Imagine Indiana Jones trekking through a narrow gorge that suddenly opens up to reveal a massive, intricately detailed temple. That’s just the beginning!

Petra’s unique combination of history, architecture, engineering marvels, cultural significance, and natural beauty solidify its place as one of the wonders of the world.

The meaning of Petra

The name “Petra” originates from the Ancient Greek word “petra,” meaning “rock” or “stone.” This reflects the prominent geological feature of the city, characterized by its breathtaking structures carved into the rose-colored rock cliffs.

When was petra built?

The exact date of Petra’s construction remains uncertain, but it’s estimated to have been around the 3rd century BC. The Nabataeans, a group of nomadic Arab people, are thought to have carved the city gradually over several centuries.

Why was Petra abandoned?

The shift in trade routes away from Nabataean territory, coupled with natural disasters and political instability, all contributed to Petra’s decline starting around the 4th century AD. However, while the city was abandoned, it was not entirely forgotten. Local Bedouin communities continued to inhabit the area, and Petra was rediscovered by Western explorers in the early 19th century, leading to renewed interest and preservation efforts.

16 Reasons Why Petra, Jordan Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Here’s why Petra is in a league of its own:

1. Rock-Starred Architecture: Forget concrete jungles, Petra is a city carved directly into rose-colored sandstone cliffs! Imagine walking through a narrow canyon that suddenly opens up to reveal a massive temple.

2. Hidden City: Petra’s nickname, “The Rose City,” comes from the unique rose-colored sandstone the city is carved from. But for centuries, this hidden gem remained a secret! The theory is that the Nabataeans, who were originally nomadic traders, kept Petra hidden to protect themselves from rivals and to maintain control of a crucial water source. It wasn’t until 1812 that a Swiss explorer, Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, disguised himself as an Arab and stumbled upon this forgotten wonder.

3. Engineering Marvels: The Nabataeans, the ancient people who built Petra, were water management wizards. Look for hidden cisterns and ingenious channels that kept the city thriving in the desert. Carved throughout Petra you’ll find hidden cisterns, some as big as the Great Cistern which could hold an estimated 150,000 cubic meters of water, that’s enough to fill over 60 Olympic swimming pools! They also built ingenious channels that collected rainwater from the mountains miles away, allowing a whole civilization to flourish in the heart of the desert.

4. Stairway to Heaven (Literally): Prepare your calves! Climbing the 800+ steps to the Monastery, also known as Ad Deir, is a workout, but the panoramic views from the top are worth every drop of sweat. As you climb, you’ll get stunning close-up views of the surrounding cliffs and hidden caves. If scaling steps isn’t your style, don’t worry, you can always take a traditional donkey ride up! The Monastery itself sits at a height of over 1,000 meters from the valley floor, offering a truly breathtaking perspective.

5. A City Built High and Low: Petra isn’t just about soaring facades. There are fascinating underground chambers and homes, some featuring ingenious drainage systems to handle desert flash floods. You’ll also find the Roman Theater, a 1st-century AD marvel built into the hillside and originally able to seat up to 8,000 spectators!

6. Water Wonders: The Siq, the narrow gorge leading to Petra, is an adventure in itself. This narrow gorge stretches for about 1.2 kilometers, with towering cliffs creating a dramatic play of light and shadow. As you walk, listen for the echoes – they might have been used for announcements or ceremonies in ancient times. Keep an eye out for the cleverly carved water channels that snake along the rock walls, a testament to the Nabataeans’ water management skills.

7. Beyond the Facades: Petra is a feast for the eyes, and the Treasury is just the first course! Explore the Royal Tombs, a collection of impressive facades carved high into the cliffs. Notice the different architectural styles, like the Corinthian columns, hinting at the influences that shaped Nabataean art. The Street of Facades, a long colonnaded avenue lined with tombs and temples, stretches for over a kilometer, offering a glimpse into Petra’s grandeur. Don’t miss the Ad Deir Monastery, a sprawling complex with a unique facade, for a truly awe-inspiring experience.

8. A Living City: Petra isn’t a museum – it’s a living, breathing place! Local Bedouins, nomadic Arab people with a rich history dating back centuries, add a vibrant touch to the site. You can take a traditional camel ride through the desert landscape or browse their stalls filled with hand-woven rugs, intricate jewelry, and other handicrafts, a beautiful reminder of Petra’s enduring culture. Their traditional clothing, often made from wool and natural fibers, is perfectly adapted to the hot desert climate.

9. Colors that Change: Petra’s magic unfolds throughout the day. The sandstone cliffs change color with the sunlight, transforming from a soft pink in the cool morning light to a fiery orange at sunset, earning it the nickname “The Rose City.” This natural light show is a photographer’s dream, so be sure to pack your camera and capture Petra’s ever-changing beauty.

10. Off the Beaten Path (Kinda): While Petra is a popular tourist destination, it still feels like an adventure. Getting there, whether by car, bus, or horseback riding, is part of the experience. Exploring the vast network of tombs, temples, and hidden chambers is like uncovering a forgotten world.

11. Something for Everyone: History buffs, architecture lovers, and nature enthusiasts – Petra has something for everyone! Immerse yourself in the rich history, marvel at the architectural ingenuity, or hike the surrounding trails for breathtaking panoramic views. You can even capture stunning photos to keep the memories alive.

12. A Timeless Beauty: Carved centuries ago, Petra’s beauty transcends time. It’s a powerful reminder of human ingenuity, artistic expression, and the ability to build a thriving civilization in a harsh environment. Exploring Petra is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

13. A Bucket List Must: Petra isn’t just a vacation destination; it’s a transformative experience. It will challenge you with its climbs, amaze you with its history, and leave you breathless with its beauty. It definitely deserves a spot on your travel bucket list, and I can’t wait to help you plan your unforgettable Petra adventure! Scroll down for travel tips from my trip to Petra.

14. Movie Magic at Treasury: Parts of “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” were filmed in Petra. The iconic Treasury building in Petra served as the exterior of the temple that housed the Holy Grail in the movie. It’s one of the most recognizable scenes from the film and has helped to further popularize Petra as a must-visit destination for travelers and movie buffs alike.

While “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” is one of the most famous movies filmed at Petra, it’s not the only one. Other films and TV shows have also utilized Petra’s unique beauty for their productions. For example, scenes from “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” and “The Mummy Returns” were also filmed there.

15. Treasury by Day, Tomb by Night: The iconic Al Khazneh, or “Treasury,” is mind-blowing. But did you know it was actually a mausoleum, likely for a wealthy Nabataean king? The intricate carvings on the facade offer clues about the king’s power and wealth. Some archaeologists even have theories about who might be entombed there, but that’s a mystery for you to ponder while you explore! The architectural style itself is a fascinating blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.

Travel Tip(s)

… for Petra By Night

If you’ve got trouble walking long distances, Petra by Night might not be the best pick. It’s about 1.2 km to the show and back, and there’s no wheelchairs or rides available, so it could be tough.

And if you’re bringing little ones along, keep in mind they might not be up for the walk.

To get there, you can drive yourself or grab a local taxi to the visitor’s center. From there, you’ll head into the Siq, a candlelit path about 1.2 km long. It’s quiet and windy, but pretty stunning. You’ll reach the Treasury in less than 30 minutes if you don’t stop for breaks or pics.

My most important tip: Split it up! Do Petra by Night one evening, then come back during the day. Walking in the sun can really wear you out, so give yourself a break.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

16. A World Heritage Site for a Reason: Petra earned its UNESCO World Heritage status for being a unique cultural and historical landmark. It’s a place where history comes alive.

Petra, Jordan: Everything You Need to Know

Travel Tip(s)

Jordan visa: When you buy the Jordan Pass you can get your e-visa online and input your Jordan Pass number on the e-visa online application so that the visa fee is waived. When you disembark the plane, head down the corridor and skip the visa line and head to the immigration counters.
Currency: The Jordanian dinar (JOD).
Languages: Arabic, English, and a bit of French.
Nearest airport: Fly to King Hussein Int. Airport.
Time zone: UTC+2 (EET); Summer (DST) – UTC+3 (EEST).
Check the weather for your destination.
Best time in the day: Go bright and early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and before it gets too warm.
Non-negotiable must-take items: A hat, sunscreen, plenty of water, comfortable shoes, identity documents (if you’re a foreigner), a mini first aid kit with basics such as some paracetamol, plasters, and tissues.
Optional, but wise, to take along: Chances are your phone will run low in battery power, so take a power bank.
Best months to go: March, April and May, or during the fall i.e. September to November. during Spring and Fall that Petra isn’t too crowded, most crowded from June to August
Safety: The Middle East is notorious for being a dangerous region for travellers, but security and governmental procedures are much stronger, ensuring that visitors have a very positive and safe experience.
Dress code: Cover your shoulders, chest, and legs.
Popular Jordanian food: Falafel, hummus, kunafa, and shawarma.