Siq

The Siq (Arabic: السيق, transliterated al-Sīq, transcribed as-Sīq, literally 'the Shaft') is the main entrance to the ancient Nabatean city of Petra in southern Jordan. It is a dark, narrow gorge that is sometimes only about 3 metres (10 feet) wide. The Siq is about 1.2 kilometres (just under a mile) long and leads visitors to one of Petra's most famous sights, Al-Khazneh, also called the Treasury.

A wide valley outside the Siq is called the Bab as-Sīq, meaning the Gateway to the Siq. This narrow pathway was built by the Nabateans thousands of years ago and is still an important part of exploring Petra today.

Description

The Siq is the main entrance to the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. It was formed by natural forces and later shaped by water. Its tall walls rise between 91–182 metres high.

A large dam at the entrance, rebuilt in 1963 and again in 1991, controls the water from Wadi Musa. The entrance also has the remains of a grand arch that fell down in 1896 after an earthquake.

The Siq was used by traders entering Petra. Along its walls are special niches that were important to the Nabatean people. In 1998, big statues of merchants leading camels were found. There are also hidden underground rooms whose purpose is still a mystery, but many think they were used by guards protecting Petra's entrance.

3D documentation

The Zamani Project recorded the Siq and much of Petra Archaeological Park in 2011–2014. This project is part of the UNESCO Siq Stability Project. It focuses on creating 3D digital documentation of tangible cultural heritage. The goal is to help people learn about important places in Africa and other parts of the world. The information is used for studying, teaching, protecting, and preserving these sites for the future.