Jordan’s most remarkable archaeological wonder is Petra, an ancient city sculpted into the rose-coloured cliffs of a hidden gorge. Built during the 6th century BC, Petra was the power centre of the Nabataean Kingdom, which dominated Arabia’s silk and spice routes. The city disappeared from Western maps for over 300 years before being ‘rediscovered’ in the early 19th century. Today Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been voted one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.

See

• The Siq – The dramatic main entranceway to Petra. Flanked by impossibly high cliffs, this narrow gorge suddenly opens up to reveal the awe-inspiring splendour of the lost city. 
• The Treasury – Petra’s most famous monument bears a striking resemblance to a Greek temple and was the financial hub of the ancient city. This breathtaking structure has featured in many movies including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
• The Monastery – Petra’s largest building stands on a mountain above the rest of the city. Originally a temple dedicated to Obodas I, this glorious structure is well worth the one-hour climb to get to it.

Experience

• A walk through history – As well as admiring Petra’s majestic main monuments, we highly recommend a stroll through the old residential and commercial district. Peeking inside the centuries-old living quarters and merchants’ shops offers an intriguing glimpse of life in the ancient world.