Step into the mesmerizing world of Petra, a once-forgotten city that now stands proudly as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the Rose City for its stunning red sandstone cliffs, Petra is a place of ancient wonder that feels like a lost world waiting to be rediscovered. Carved into the earth, this ancient city was once a bustling trading hub and the capital of the powerful Nabataean Kingdom.
Situated in the desert canyons of southwestern Jordan, Petra’s awe-inspiring architecture has earned it a spot among the New Seven Wonders of the World. Though only 15 percent of this monumental site has been uncovered, the remaining 85 percent still lies beneath the earth, waiting for adventurers to explore its untold stories.
Incredible as it may seem, Petra is more than just a historical site—it’s a living piece of cinematic history. You might recognize its iconic Treasury, Al Khazneh, from films like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, The Mummy Returns, and Aladdin, where its grandeur set the stage for cinematic adventures. But there’s more to this ancient wonder than meets the eye.
The Journey to Petra
Arriving in Petra is like stepping back in time. Visitors follow the same path that traders and travelers have taken for centuries—the Siq. This narrow, winding gorge, stretching nearly a mile, creates an air of mystery and anticipation as you get closer to the heart of the city. Along the path, you’ll encounter carvings of camels, ancient stone niches, and other symbols from a civilization that was ahead of its time.
When you finally emerge from the Siq, the sight that awaits you will take your breath away. The intricate beauty of Petra’s architecture, carved directly into the rock, is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
The Nabataeans
The Nabataeans were a nomadic Bedouin tribe who, in the 2nd century BCE, transformed a rugged desert landscape into a thriving city. Their control over critical trade routes helped them grow wealthy and powerful, turning Petra into a major center for commerce, culture, and religion.
For centuries, Petra flourished, with its people exposed to the influences of Mediterranean and Arabian cultures. The city became a symbol of their strength and wealth, a stunning architectural marvel designed to withstand the harsh desert environment. Even after the Romans conquered the Nabataean Kingdom in 106 CE, Petra continued to grow, incorporating Roman influences, most notably in the famous Treasury.
But like all great civilizations, the Nabataeans eventually fell, and Petra was abandoned. Over the centuries, nature slowly reclaimed the city, and it became a forgotten treasure.
Burckhardt
Petra remained lost to the world until the 19th century when Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt “rediscovered” the city. Intrigued by local stories, Burckhardt, who had been studying Arabic in Syria, disguised himself as a Bedouin sheikh and set out to find the ancient city. In 1812, after years of preparation and exploration, Burckhardt became the first Westerner to lay eyes on Petra in over 1,000 years.
Upon his arrival, Burckhardt was awestruck. He described the moment in his journal, marveling at the beauty of the mausoleums and the mysterious atmosphere that pervaded the area. His discovery sparked interest in Petra, and soon, explorers from around the world flocked to the site to study its wonders and share them with the world.
Al Khazneh
Of all Petra’s breathtaking structures, the Treasury, or Al Khazneh, stands as its most iconic symbol. Carved into the sheer cliffs, the Treasury rises an impressive 127 feet, with an entrance 82 feet wide. Its stunning façade, with influences from both Hellenistic and Nabataean styles, gives it an almost ethereal quality.
Despite its name, the Treasury wasn’t a place to store riches. Archaeologists believe it was actually a tomb, likely for a Nabataean king or queen. However, due to the myth of hidden treasure, the name Treasury stuck. Local Bedouins once believed that the urn at the top of the structure contained treasure, and they even shot at it in hopes of releasing the wealth inside. No treasure was found, but the legend remains.
The Treasury’s fame soared further when it appeared in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade as the location of the Holy Grail.
Petra continues to captivate millions of visitors each year. Its stunning architecture and rich history are a testament to the ingenuity of the Nabataeans and their lasting impact on the world. As you walk through the Siq and glimpse the magnificent Treasury, it’s easy to see why Petra remains one of the world’s most celebrated wonders.
Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or a film fan, Petra offers something for everyone. It’s a place where the past and present meet, and the mysteries of an ancient civilization are waiting to be uncovered.
If you haven’t experienced Petra yet, now is the time to start planning your journey. Don’t miss the chance to step into the heart of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring ancient cities.
