Although this impressive monumental complex was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Petra was also named one of the new Wonders of the Modern World in 2007, making it a ‘must’ for those in search of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites.
Petra is considered the most important tourist attraction in Jordan and lies in a very narrow valley that runs from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba. The exact location is found in a 1.5km long gorge with walls reaching up to 200m in height.
Petra got its name from the Greek word “πέτρα” which means rocks, but in contrast to what many people believe Petra is not a city built from stone, but actually carved and sculpted in the stone where it’s located.
We need to take a look back at its history to understand its existence and current state. Back in the 8th century BC, it was originally conceived by the Edomites, but it was the Nabataeans who really made it prosper as the centre of the caravan route, which transported spices, incense and other highly sought-after products between Arabia, Egypt and the southern Mediterranean. Later, when sea-based trade routes became more popular because of the earthquakes in the region, Petra declined rapidly and was left abandoned until it was rediscovered in 1812 by Jean Louis Burckhardt.
You’ve surely heard about Petra many times in the past, but hopefully, after reading some of the following facts, your interest will be aroused that little bit more.
Interesting facts about Petra:
1. The architectural site was used for religious, funerary and political purposes.
2. Among Petra’s most outstanding architecture, we have Al Khazneh (the Treasury) and El Deir (the Monastery).
3. We also find massive spaces like the Roman Theatre with capacity for about 3000 people.
4. Its population peaked at about 30,000 inhabitants when Petra flourished.
5. The narrow entrance passage (Siq) between the colossal mountains is only two metres wide.
6. The same walls controlled the water supply and created an artificial oasis that made it particularly suitable as a stop off point on commercial routes.
7. In 2005, the city of Petra entered a twinning agreement with Machu Picchu, also considered another Wonder of the Modern World.
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