Exploring the Ancient City of Petra: A Jordanian World Heritage Site

Tucked away in the south of Jordan is the ancient city of Petra – a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical significance and awe-inspiring beauty. Petra was once the thriving capital of the Nabataean Empire, and today is visited by thousands of tourists each year. This blog post will explore the history, culture, and attractions of this unique destination, as well as provide useful tips for visitors.

History of Petra

The ancient city of Petra is believed to have been inhabited as early as 9000 BCE, but it was the Nabataean Empire (312 BCE – 106 CE), that left the most significant legacy. The Nabataeans were an Arab tribe who, upon taking control of the city, transformed it into an important commercial and cultural centre. They carved out an extensive network of structures and monuments from the red sandstone cliffs, creating a stunning, unique cityscape. After the fall of the Nabataean Empire, Petra’s influence waned, and the city was eventually abandoned in the 7th century CE.

Culture of Petra

The Nabataeans were a polytheistic people, and their beliefs have been preserved in the many religious and spiritual monuments they left behind in Petra. The most famous of these is the ‘Great Temple’, a large temple complex built in the 1st century CE. The Great Temple was dedicated to the Nabataean god Dushara, and is the largest and most impressive of the many temples found in Petra. Other religious sites include the ‘High Place’, a large platform on a hilltop dedicated to the goddess Al-Uzza, and the ‘Tomb of the Kings’, a large, elaborate tomb complex.

Attractions of Petra

Petra is known for its many stunning monuments, carved from the red sandstone cliffs. The most famous of these is the ‘Treasury’, a large, ornately-carved building believed to have been a royal tomb. The Treasury is perhaps the most iconic image of Petra, and has been featured in many films and television shows. Other attractions include the Royal Tombs, a group of large, elaborate tombs built by the Nabataean kings; the Obelisk Tomb, an impressive monument carved into the side of a cliff; and the Roman Theatre, a large amphitheatre built in the 2nd century CE.

Visiting Petra

Petra is a popular tourist destination and can be visited either independently or as part of an organised tour. It is best to plan your visit in advance, as there is so much to see and do in Petra. The city can be explored on foot, or by camel, horse, or donkey. It is also possible to take a cable car up to the top of the cliffs, for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Visitors should also bear in mind that Petra is a World Heritage Site, and should take care to protect the monuments and environment.

Accommodation in Petra

The city of Petra has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. There are several hotels located in the city centre, as well as a number of guesthouses and hostels. For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are also campsites located in the nearby Wadi Rum desert. Visitors should bear in mind that many of the hotels in Petra are quite basic, and may not offer the same level of comfort as those in more developed cities.

Food and Drink in Petra

Petra has a range of restaurants and cafes serving both traditional Jordanian food and international cuisine. Visitors can also find a number of street food stalls selling snacks such as falafel and shawarma. There are also several bars and pubs located in the city, serving a variety of local and imported drinks. For those looking for something a little more adventurous, there are also a number of desert safari tours offering activities such as camel riding and sandboarding.

Shopping in Petra

Petra has a range of shops selling traditional Jordanian souvenirs such as carpets, jewellery, and pottery. Visitors can also find a number of handicrafts and antiques in the city’s bustling souks. There are also a number of supermarkets and convenience stores selling groceries and other everyday items. For those looking for something a little more high-end, there are also a number of boutique shops selling designer clothing and accessories.

Events in Petra

Petra is home to a number of exciting annual events, including the Petra Festival, a three-day celebration of music, dance, and art; the Petra Marathon, a popular running event; and the Petra Jazz Festival, an international music festival. Visitors should also bear in mind that Petra can be quite busy during public holidays and other special occasions, so it is best to plan your visit accordingly.

Safety in Petra

Petra is generally a safe and welcoming destination, but visitors should bear in mind that the city is located in a conservative part of the world and should respect the local culture and customs. It is also advisable to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid travelling alone at night. Other than that, visitors should find Petra to be a safe and enjoyable destination.

Getting to Petra

The city of Petra is located in the south of Jordan, about a 3 hour drive from the capital, Amman. The closest airport to Petra is in Amman, from which there are regular flights to and from major cities around the world. Once in Amman, visitors can take a bus or taxi to Petra. There are also a number of buses that run from Amman to Petra, which are cheaper but take longer.

Tips for Visiting Petra

• Plan your visit in advance, as there is so much to see and do in Petra.
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid travelling alone at night.
• Respect the local culture and customs.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as Petra is best explored on foot.
• Take plenty of water with you, as it can get very hot in the city.
• Bring sunscreen, as the sun can be very strong in Petra.

Conclusion

The ancient city of Petra is a unique and fascinating destination, and a must-see for any visitor to Jordan. From its stunning monuments carved from the cliffs to its vibrant culture and bustling souks, Petra offers something for everyone. With its rich history and stunning beauty, it is easy to see why Petra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or a relaxing holiday, Petra is the perfect destination. With its world-class attractions, welcoming people, and vibrant atmosphere, Petra is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.