Petra, carved into the rose-red cliffs of Jordan, continues to reveal its secrets. Early mapping techniques unveiled in 2016 revealed the potential ruins of a vast structure hidden beneath the sands, signaling that much of Petra's wonder is yet to be unearthed, and new discoveries are made regularly in Petra.
Built by the Nabataeans around the 4th century BCE, Petra includes temples, tombs, and a hydraulic system, all carved directly into the sandstone mountains which give the city its unique atmosphere. The Nabataeans skillfully adopted architectural and cultural influences without losing their identity, effectively integrating elements such as the Roman theater, which they remodeled, into their landscape.
One of the most recognizable landmarks is Al-Khazneh, or the Treasury, a facade with Hellenistic details, carved into the pink sandstone cliff. The structure, towering 40 meters high, is believed to have served as a royal tomb. The Treasury serves as the climactic revelation at the end of The Siq—a narrow, 1.2-kilometer canyon that dramatically introduces visitors to Petra. The Monastery, or Ad-Deir, surpasses even the Treasury in magnitude, standing 50 meters tall and providing panoramic views of the landscape from its vantage point high in the mountains.
Petra's strategic location transformed it into a flourishing commercial hub, controlling vital trade routes that connected Arabia, Egypt, and Syria. This prominence allowed the Nabataeans to generate wealth by collecting tolls from caravans that traded valuable goods such as spices and incense. Their prosperity was further supported by their innovations in water management, enabling the city to thrive in the harsh desert and serve as a critical respite for travelers.
Despite its golden era, Petra declined as the incense trade waned in the 3rd century CE. Over time, the city was abandoned and forgotten, lying dormant until Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812.
The site is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors are advised to explore the archeological marvel over several days to fully appreciate its depth and history. Guides, like those available through the Ammarin Bedouin Camp, offer insights into the history and significance of the monuments that dot the ancient landscape.
The uneven terrain requires comfortable footwear and hydration is required due to high temperatures. While many make the journey from Jordan’s capital, Amman, others arrive via neighboring regions like Wadi Rum or Aqaba, often traveling along the King’s Highway.
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.