The legendary rock city of Petra in Jordan was founded in the 2nd century BC. The capital of the Nabataeans. Today it is considered one of the new seven wonders of the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Impressive royal tombs, a fantastic monastery made of red sandstone, ruins of temples and the monumental facade of the so-called treasure house tell of the city's heyday. The name Petra is ancient Greek and means rock. In Nabatean the city was called Reqmu, the red one.
For 800 years, the rock city in Jordan was an important trading center. It is located in a sheltered valley and strategically positioned next to caravan routes such as the Incense Route. This quickly helped Petra prosper. The area has been inhabited since the 5th century BC and today provides valuable archaeological insights. Colonnaded streets, an amphitheater, and the remains of Byzantine churches bear witness to later Roman influence and add another chapter to Petra's cultural treasures.
Rock City of Petra Jordan World Wonders and World Heritage
Petra UNESCO World Heritage Site Siq and Treasury of Pharaoh Khaze al-Firaun Jordan
Ad Deir Monastery Petra UNESCO World Heritage Monastery Monument Jordan
The rock city of Petra is a new wonder of the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
I slowly turn around my own axis and breathe the secret of this ancient, mysterious city. Steep stairs carved in stone and magnificent rock graves lay claim to my amazement. Tender red surrounds the vast valley. The golden yellow evening sun bathes the scenery in soft colors. And in the motley sandstone patterns of the facades, culture and nature seem to be engaged in a fierce competition.
AGE ™
Urn tomb with vault, Royal Tombs, Petra, Jordan
The history of the Nabataean city of Petra – Photo Monastery Petra Jordan
Roman Theatre of the ancient city of Petra, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan
Petra was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, and rightly so. Jordan's most important cultural asset is a testament to 7 years of history. We visited Petra for five days, and every day was full of highlights.
How much does it cost to enter Petra in Jordan?
The prices apply to tourists who spend at least one night in Jordan:
50 JOD (approx. 65 EUR) for 1 day.
55 JOD (approx. 72 EUR) for 2 consecutive days.
60 JOD (approx. 78 EUR) for 3 consecutive days.
Important note: Visitors visiting Petra for a day trip only (without an overnight stay in Jordan) pay a higher fee of 90 JOD. However, if you can prove that you stayed overnight in Jordan (e.g., upon exit), the difference can often be refunded.
Please note possible changes. You can find prices at Jordan Tourism Board. Provides information on tours, transportation and Petra by night Visitpetra.
What are Petra's opening hours?
Opening hours depend on the season:
Summer (approx. March – October): The grounds and visitor center are usually 6: 00 clock to 18: 00 clock .
Winter (approx. October – March): The opening hours are shortened, mostly from 6:00 a.m. or 6:30 a.m. to 16:00 p.m. or 17:00 p.m..
It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat. Since there may be slight variations depending on the source, it is advisable to confirm the exact times shortly before your visit. For more information, please visit Jordan Pass and active in Visitpetra.
How much time should I plan for Petra?
No visitor should plan less than a full day for a visit to Petra, Jordan! Those who want to see more than just the main attractions should allow themselves two days. Culture enthusiasts or hiking enthusiasts who want to explore trails off the beaten track will appreciate three or more days.
Are there food and toilets in Petra?
There is occasional catering, for example right next to the famous treasure house. Traders offer tea along the way and you can enjoy a cool drink at the Ad Dheir monastery. Nevertheless, a daypack is worth it. The distances are long and water and sun protection are definitely on the packing list. A packed lunch extends the viewing time. Toilets are available and listed in the plan.
Where is the rock city of Petra in Jordan?
Petra is located in the south of Jordan. The rock city lies roughly between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea. It is located about 100 km north of Aqaba and about 100 km from Wadi Rum. The visitor center is located on the outskirts of Wadi Musa. A side exit borders the Bedouin town of Uum Sayhoun.
Open map route planner
Map route planner
Which sights are nearby?
The city of Wadi Musa is directly adjacent to the main entrance of Petra. Only about 10 km away is Little Petra, the little sister of the ancient city with its own charm. A hike from Petra to Little Petra is also an interesting option. Occasionally Bedouins also offer overnight caves. 30 km north of Petra is the crusader castle Shobak Castle.
In the 5th century BC, the first Nabataeans settled in the area. Petra flourished as an important trading city and the capital of the Nabataeans. Only with increasing Roman influence did the city lose its independence. Today, Petra in Jordan, the necropolis of the Nabataeans Our short summary of the History of Petra over here.
There are 5 sightseeing routes and 3 hiking trails. Information about the individual routes, including photos of the sights and a map of Petra, Jordan, can be found here.
Even with walking difficulties, the dream of visiting Petra in Jordan can come true. At least some of the sights are easily accessible. You can find more information here. here.
Petra in Jordan has a rich and fascinating history: Flowering time: Petra was the impressive capital of the ancient kingdom of Nabataeans, built from about the 4th century BC. It developed into a central trading hub for incense, spices, and silk. During this period, the famous rock-carved structures such as the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) and the Monastery (Ad-Deir) were built. Decline: From the 1st century AD, the Romans took control. Trade routes and several serious Earthquake (especially in the 4th and 6th centuries AD) led to Petra losing its importance and being gradually abandoned. Oblivion & Rediscovery: For centuries, the city was largely forgotten in the Western world until it was “rediscovered” in 1812 by the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Today: Petra is today one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, World Heritage Site (since 1985) and in 2007 became one of the New 7 Wonders of the World It is a testament to Nabataean engineering and culture and one of Jordan's main attractions. In summary, what “happened” in Petra was the rise to a flourishing rock city and trading metropolis, followed by a decline due to natural disasters and economic changes, up to its current significance as a world-famous cultural heritage site.
Is Petra in Jordan a wonder of the world?
Yes, Petra in Jordan is considered a wonder of the world. More specifically, in 2007, Petra was voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World It is thus included on a modern list of impressive buildings and sites, alongside the classic Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Petra is also a significant UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How much does it cost to enter Petra?
The standard entrance fee for tourists staying overnight in Jordan is (as of April 2025): 50 JOD (approx. 65 EUR) for a day ticketTickets for 2 or 3 consecutive days are available for 55 JOD or 60 JOD, respectively. Children: Children under 12 years of age are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult. Additional costs: The “Petra by Night” event costs extra (approx. 15-17 JOD) and is not included in the regular ticket or Jordan Pass. Alternative Jordan Pass: This is often the most cost-effective option if you are visiting multiple sites and staying in Jordan for at least 3 nights. The pass includes the visa fee (subject to conditions) and admission to over 40 attractions, including Petra. There are different passes depending on whether you want to visit Petra on 1, 2, or 3 consecutive days (e.g., Jordan Wanderer approx. 106 USD, Explorer approx. 111 USD, Expert approx. 116 USD, plus possible processing fees). The Jordan Pass must be off can be purchased online upon arrival.
Note: Prices are subject to change. It is recommended to check the current fees on the official websites (e.g., Visit Petra or Jordan Pass).
When is the best time to travel to Petra?
The best time for a visit to the rock city Petra in Jordan are the Spring and the Autumn. Spring (March to May): During these months you can enjoy pleasantly mild temperatures and nature often shows its blooming side. Weather is ideal for long exploration tours. Autumn (September to November): Even in autumn, temperatures are moderate, making hiking through the extensive archaeological site very pleasant. During these times you will avoid the extreme summer heat (June-August) and the cooler, sometimes rainy winter months (December-February).
Street of the facadesGate to the Great Temple
View of Al-Khubtha TrailRock tombs burial chamber
Copyrights and Copyright
Texts and photos are protected by copyright. The copyrights of this article in words and images are entirely owned by AGE ™. All rights reserved. Content for print / online media can be licensed on request.
Source reference for text research
Information boards on site, as well as personal experiences when visiting the Petra Jordan World Heritage Site in October 2019.
Petra Development And Tourism Region Authority (oD), About Petra. Archeological Maps. One of 7 wonders. The Nabatean. Trails. [online] Retrieved on April 12.04.2021, XNUMX, from URL: http://www.visitpetra.jo/Pages/viewpage.aspx?pageID=124
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