Lying in the heart of the Jordanian desert, Petra is one of the most stunning archaeological sites in the world. Also known as the “Rose City,” this ancient city was carved into red sandstone cliffs by the Nabataean people over 2,000 years ago. The journey to Petra is not just about exploring one of the most impressive historical sites but also about embracing the beauty and serenity of Jordan’s natural surroundings.
The journey to Petra begins with a flight to Amman, the capital city of Jordan. From there, it’s a 3-hour drive to Petra, and the journey itself is an experience to cherish. The road winds through the beautiful desert landscape, giving way to vast expanses of sand dunes and rugged mountains. As we approached Petra, the pink sandstone cliffs loomed in the distance, shrouded in mystery and awe.
Upon arriving at Petra, we began our journey by walking through the Siq, a narrow but awe-inspiring canyon that leads visitors to the entrance of the ancient city. The Siq is over a kilometer long, with towering walls of stone that reach 300 feet high. As we walked through the Siq, we marveled at the intricate details and patterns carved into the rock walls. The Nabataeans’ mastery of stone carving was on full display here, and it took our breath away.
After walking through the Siq, the rose-colored Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, came into view. As one of the most iconic landmarks of Petra, the Treasury is an awe-inspiring structure with intricate carvings so intricate that you can’t help but stop and stare. It’s hard not to feel as if you’re living inside a fairytale at this point.
The journey through Petra took us past countless tombs, temples, and buildings carved into the rock face, each vying to out-awe the one before. The Monastery, for example, is a structure so massive that it is impossible to capture its full majesty in photographs. It’s a genuine testament to the hard work and determination of the Nabataeans, who built Petra over many decades.
Petra is an otherworldly magical place with rich history, serene grandeur, and a sense of awe-inspiring silence and tranquility that speaks to you with its grandeur from centuries. Therefore, if you are looking for an awe-inspiring journey with unforgettable memories, make Petra your next destination. The experience is not only educational, but it will also change your perception of ancient histories’ capabilities. At some time, we didn’t think that much could be done without modern machinery, but visiting Petra makes us realize the limits of ancient civilization.
