Petra, Jordan

Petra is a stunning city carved from a cliff face. Both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a world-renowned monument, it is one of those wonders that makes you think about how little we seem to have progressed since ancient times.
The Nabataeans were a powerful Arab dynasty around the 3rd century BC. The meeting point of several major Nabataean caravan routes, Petra grew as a centre of commerce. It flourished for centuries until it was occupied by the Romans in 106 AD. Then, shipping routes replaced camel routes and Petra fell into decline. It was only in 1812 that the city got some attention again, when it was “rediscovered” by Swiss adventurer, John Burckhardt.

The “city” is carved from sandstone in a deep canyon and is only accessible through a narrow winding cleft in the rock. The most famous ruin is the Khazneh, or Treasury, which greets you when you walk through the cleft. Other highlights include the monastery (with its amazing views), an 8000-seat amphitheatre and the Temple of the Winged Lions, which is still in the process of excavation.

You’re not going to be alone when you visit, but it’s easy to forget other tourists when faced with such an awesome monument to civilisations past. Spend some time here and watch the colours change with the light.

Useful links:

http://www.petra-marathon.com/

No related posts.