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Petra

January, 2019
somewherenice.blog

A Journey to Petra: Exploring the Ancient Ruins

Located between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, this ancient city is filled with breathtaking beauty and rich history. Dating back to the 4th century BC, Petra was once the thriving capital of the Nabataean Empire, a people who left their mark through impressive architecture carved directly into the sandstone rocks. From Al-Siq canyon to the Treasury Al-Khazneh, there are many incredible sites to explore in Petra.

image: Petra, Jordan - the trail to the top around a rocky area
image: Petra, Jordan - a group of people walking on a path next to a rocky cliff image: Petra, Jordan - the caves in the desert image: Petra, Jordan - the ruins of the ancient city

Al Siq canyon

To get to the ancient city, you must first hike through the narrow canyon. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding red-rock cliffs, discover natural wonders, ancient archaeological sites, and magnificent rock formations. Every twist and turn in the canyon presents something new and remarkable to explore. With its hidden corners and long winding pathways, Al Siq canyon is the perfect place for an adventurous traveler to get lost in.

image: Petra, Jordan - the canyon walls and a group of people image: Petra, Jordan - the long and narrow trail through the canyon image: Petra, Jordan - tourists arriving at the ancient ruins
image: Petra, Jordan - The treasury Al-Khazneh and people standing around it

The treasury Al-Khazneh

At the end of the canyon lies the most iconic structure in all of Petra, the treasury Al-Khazneh. This ancient structure is carved out of the red and pink sandstone cliff face and stands an impressive 39 meters tall and 50 meters wide. Built by the Nabateans as a temple or mausoleum around 100BC, it has been carefully preserved throughout the centuries. Whether you come here at sunset or sunrise, there is something truly magical about seeing this incredible structure in person.

Ruins of the ancient city

Exploring the ruins of Petra, an ancient city carved into the rocks, is an unforgettable adventure. Walking through the ancient remains of this great civilization, with its intricate and fascinating architecture, is a humbling journey that transports you back in time. You can find tombs and monuments made from sandstone that were painstakingly crafted centuries ago. As you traverse through Petra, you will be amazed at how well-preserved the ruins are, despite being hundreds of years old. There are also temples and shrines scattered throughout the site, offering insight into the lives of those who once lived here.

image: Petra, Jordan - the sun and rainbow shine through the ruins image: Petra, Jordan - a large stone facade inside a rock image: Petra, Jordan - The monastery Ad Deir ruins

Climbing and exploring

For a different perspective, you can hike around the site, which will give you a chance to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Get lost in its many caves, wander through its many pathways, and explore the ruins that were carved into the rock face. Climb up to the top of these rocks and take in stunning views of the entire site. Petra is an incredible place that you won’t soon forget. From its imposing sandstone structures to its endless pathways, this ancient city is sure to captivate you.

image: Petra, Jordan - stairs and a pathway through a rock image: Petra, Jordan - the steep, rocky stairs leading to the top image: Petra, Jordan - a dangerous path on the top of a rocky cliff over the abyss
image: Petra, Jordan - a view of mountains and the valley below
image: Petra, Jordan - a little donkey tied to a dessert tree near a rocky cliff

Taking a ride

One of the attractions offered in Petra is a ride. You can ride in a horse carriage through the narrow passage of the Al-Siq canyon, explore the ruins by camel, or weave in and out of the amazing rock formations on a donkey. Hold on tight and enjoy the view that will leave you in awe of the wonders of this ancient city.

! Be careful. Do not ride animals that look sick, injured, unhealthy or distressed. Do not support operators that are treating animals in a harmful way !

For those looking for a truly unique experience, Petra in Jordan is an unforgettable destination. The ancient city has remained largely untouched by time and provides an incredible glimpse into what life was like in the region centuries ago. Here, visitors can marvel at the spectacular Treasury of Al Khazneh and ancient ruins scattered across the landscape, offering plenty of opportunities to explore.

image: Petra, Jordan - a hut next to the rocky mountain range
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image: Petra, Jordan - the sun rises behind the rock formations
image: Petra, Jordan - the trail to the top around a rocky area
image: Petra, Jordan - a group of people walking on a path next to a rocky cliff
image: Petra, Jordan - the caves in the desert
image: Petra, Jordan - the ruins of the ancient city
image: Petra, Jordan - the canyon walls and a group of people
image: Petra, Jordan - the long and narrow trail through the canyon
image: Petra, Jordan - tourists arriving at the ancient ruins
image: Petra, Jordan - The treasury Al-Khazneh and people standing around it
image: Petra, Jordan - the sun and rainbow shine through the ruins
image: Petra, Jordan - a large stone facade inside a rock
image: Petra, Jordan - The monastery Ad Deir ruins
image: Petra, Jordan - stairs and a pathway through a rock
image: Petra, Jordan - the steep, rocky stairs leading to the top
image: Petra, Jordan - a dangerous path on the top of a rocky cliff over the abyss
image: Petra, Jordan - a view of mountains and the valley below
image: Petra, Jordan - a little donkey tied to a dessert tree near a rocky cliff
image: Petra, Jordan - a hut next to the rocky mountain range