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5 Must-See Places When You're in Petra

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Photos Credit: Shutterstock

One beautiful morning, you find yourself in the Rose City. You have landed in Petra, Jordan, and are now ready to venture through the entire city. You may be wondering why Petra is called the "Rose City" if it has no famous rose gardens. The name was conjured in reference to the lovely red sandstone architecture that can be found throughout the city. If you are a lover of art, architecture, and world history, Petra is one of the most inspiring destinations you could find yourself in. Aside from visiting the distinct historical tourist destinations walking around the city will give you more opportunities to explore than if you were to take a tour. In order for your tour of Petra to be complete, there are five locations that should be on your must-see list.

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Al Khazneh

Also popularly known as “The Treasury”, this temple is one of the most elaborate relics remaining of the ancient Arab world. Created by the Nabataean kingdom in the 6th century BCE, Al Khazneh is unique in that it was carved from a single, massive block of sandstone.

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Siq

Siq is another ancient Nabataean creation, and served as the main entrance to the city in ancient times. Siq, also sometimes known as Siqit, is a narrow gorge outlet. It is around 3 meters high and twists around curving sandstone for approximately 1.2 km before opening up to the wide valley known as Bab as-Siq.

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Al Beidah

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was also created by the Nabataean civilization in the north of Petra. This site is an excellent visit for history buffs. The excavation was initiated by Diana Kirkbride in 1957. Guests visiting the historic area can experience three occupational periods of the ancient Arabic world; the Natufian period, the pre-pottery Neolithic period, and the Nabataean period. 

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The Royal Tomb

One of the highest ancient monuments in Petra is built on the mountain side, which is an unimaginable feat for a structure built by small tribes. Touring this site requires climbing several flights stairs to reach the top of the tomb, but visitors won't be disappointed. Historians suggest that this tomb was constructed for the Nabataean king, Malchus II. With diverse, intricate sculptures surround the area, it boasts a likeness that is seen little elsewhere in the Arab world.

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Byzantine Church

This church is well known for its tourists that make a pilgrimage to the site every year. The Byzantine church is an ancient structure of Petra, built just meters ahead of the colonnaded street near the Winged Lions temple. Many tourists to the area suggest that there is a sense of peace and serenity that they feel when visiting, which keeps them coming back for years to come. 

Lior Lev

Lior Lev is the owner of Mantis Tourism & Attractions, which is a leading Israeli tour operator, specializing in the planning, organizing and conducting guided tours in Israel, Jordan and Egypt. ...(Read More)

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