Discover Petra: A Modern Wonder Carved in Stone
Petra, a stunning archaeological site in Jordan, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Carved into the rock, this ancient city is a must-see destination for travelers. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.
What Is Petra, and Where Is It?
Petra is a «lost city» that once held great significance. It was a thriving hub but faded over time due to an earthquake, the decline of the Roman Empire, and shifting trade routes. Rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss traveler, it was later excavated with help from British and American archaeological societies. Today, Petra is located in southern Jordan, a country in the Middle East, bordered by Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Palestine.
The Builders of Petra: The Nabataeans
Petra was first developed by the Nabataeans, a tribe skilled in trade, especially spices. Initially a trading post, it grew into a sophisticated city between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. The Nabataeans transitioned from nomads to settlers, building homes and intricate structures in Petra.
Petra: A Wonder of the Modern World
In 2007, Petra was voted one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Unlike the ancient wonders, this list was chosen for its scale, ingenuity, and cultural significance. Alongside Petra, the list includes the Great Wall of China, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Machu Picchu in Peru, Chichen Itza in Mexico, Colosseum in Italy, and the Taj Mahal in India.
What Makes Petra So Special?
Petra’s location in the desert makes it a unique marvel. The Nabataeans engineered advanced systems to bring water into this arid region. They built channels and underground tunnels to transport water, ensuring survival in harsh conditions. Over time, Petra became a thriving center, charging traders for shelter and food.
In AD 106, the Romans took control, and their influence is still visible in Petra’s public spaces.
Best Time to Visit Petra
Petra sees over one million visitors annually. To avoid crowds and high temperatures, visit in the early morning or late afternoon. March, May, September, and November offer the best balance of weather, cost, and crowds.
How to Get to Petra?
To plan your trip, explore available flights and transportation options to Jordan. Petra is well-connected, making it easy to reach from major cities in the region.
Book Your Vacation Now at MWR LIFE!
Ready to visit Petra and experience this ancient wonder for yourself? Book your vacation with MWR LIFE today! Explore Petra and other breathtaking destinations. Don’t miss out on a chance to walk through history!
Petra sounds like a dream destination! Its rich history and impressive engineering feats are definitely a big draw. The journey itself—from the options of horseback to camel—seems like an adventure that complements the majesty of the site. That narrow gorge, the Siq, leading up to Petra must be quite an experience, too.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the significance of Petra goes beyond just its aesthetics; it’s like stepping into a time machine. The fact that it was carved out by hand really shows the level of craftsmanship and ingenuity of the Nabataean people.
Given its location in Jordan, I’m sure you’d also get a glimpse of some of the region’s unique culture and geopolitics. Despite its proximity to other countries with a more tumultuous reputation, Jordan’s stability is reassuring for travelers. It’s nice to know that it’s generally safe to visit, with just a little caution around the borders.
What about you, Ghazaleh? Is Petra somewhere you’d like to explore one day?
