Overview
- The Story of Petra: from Nabatean Capital to UNESCO Site
- The Trail to Petra: the Treasury to the Monastery
- Exploration: the Monastery from above
1. The Story of Petra: from Nabatean Capital to UNESCO Site
Archaeologists suggest it may have been home to early residents as far back as 7000 BC and eventually served as the Nabatean capital with a population of approximately 20,000 in its prime. Known as the Rose City due to its stunning rose sandstone colour, Petra thrived as a trading hub, boasting advanced infrastructure like dams and water systems cleverly designed within its mountainous walls to thwart enemy attacks. It was also a route of passage along the ancient lands which enriched its economy. However, the city eventually succumbed to the Roman Empire in the first century BC and lost its independence in the year 106 AD before suffering extensive damage from an earthquake in 363 AD, leaving it largely as we see it today, vulnerable to further seismic activity which would likely destroy it entirely. The city is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been the case since 1985.
2. The Trail to Petra: the Treasury to the Monastery
Approaching Petra's ancient gate and navigating the winding 2km trail decorated by majestic sandstone walls heightens anticipation. The journey reveals smaller structures and statues before a narrowing unveils the iconic Treasury, evoking a sense of awe allowing me to live my own Indiana Jones adventure. Similarly, ascending the roughly 800 steps from the Basin restaurant to Petra's Monastery offers not only a physical challenge but also a thrilling sense of accomplishment. Along the way, encounters with local vendors selling trinkets along with tea and coffee is frequent. However, tea and coffee are probably not the best form of hydration in warmer conditions. Weary donkeys add to the experience transporting lesser mobile tourists as we make our way up the high hill.
The Treasury
The Monastery
A combination of modern-day steps give way to the original Nabatean steps on occasion as if to suggest ‘that will do’ from the Jordan tourism authorities. Eventually, the steps lead to a wide-open clearing culminating in a breathtaking view of the Monastery, a masterpiece of sandstone carving. Suddenly, I was standing still as if in a trance, staring at the most beautiful structure I have ever seen, carved so beautifully out of sandstone 50m wide and 45m high, surpassing the iconic treasury far below. Ad Deir’s energy is alive, and it towers above as if calling you towards it, like it has done for thousands of years to everyone who has stood before it.
A combination of modern-day steps give way to the original Nabatean steps on occasion as if to suggest ‘that will do’ from the Jordan tourism authorities. Eventually, the steps lead to a wide-open clearing culminating in a breathtaking view of the Monastery, a masterpiece of sandstone carving. Suddenly, I was standing still as if in a trance, staring at the most beautiful structure I have ever seen, carved so beautifully out of sandstone 50m wide and 45m high, surpassing the iconic treasury far below. Ad Deir’s energy is alive, and it towers above as if calling you towards it, like it has done for thousands of years to everyone who has stood before it.
The Monastery, or Ad Deir, originally a Nabatean tomb, possibly served as a Christian church during Byzantine times, as suggested by discovered crosses in its interior design. Built sometime in the 3rd century BC, the structure is perched high in the northwest hills, it boasts a levelled clearing, likely used for religious gatherings and social events, surrounded by a walled barrier reminiscent of an amphitheatre. Despite visitor restrictions inside, the Monastery's outer structure features a broken pediment with a conical roof, resembling an urn, housing a square chamber with a segmented arch, possibly an altar. Its ornate sandstone windows once housed monuments to ancient gods whilst serving as a meeting point for the city’s residents.
3. Exploration: the Monastery from above
Exploring Ad Deir is incomplete without venturing to nearby high vantage points, offering different perspectives and a chance for contemplation amidst its imposing presence. The Monastery's age and grandeur serve as a humbling reminder of human insignificance in the face of time. Further hikes lead to picturesque viewpoints, including the 'end of the world' lookout, offering stunning views of the Wadi Rum desert and Israel, a landscape also named ‘the seven pillars of wisdom’ by Lawrence of Arabia.
Whether discovering the Treasury, Nabatean tombs, the amphitheatre, or embarking on a walk to the Monastery, Petra is an avid explorer's paradise. The palpable energy of Petra will leave a lasting impression, and the exhilaration of catching your first glimpse of its wonders is unparalleled.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Jordan's awe-inspiring Petra with one of our exceptional small group tours. While all of our Jordan tours include a visit to Petra, those seeking a longer visit can opt for our four-day Petra extension. Explore our tour options below.
