Petra

Discovering Petra

Petra is an ancient city in southern Jordan. It is famous for its rock-cut buildings and clever water systems. People often call it the "Rose City" because the pink sandstone used to build it has a warm, rosy color. Today, Petra is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a special UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The area around Petra has been home to people for thousands of years. In the 4th century BC, it became the capital of the Nabataeans, a group of Arab people. They made Petra a busy trading center because of its location near important incense trade routes. The Nabataeans were very clever. They found smart ways to collect rainwater and grow food in the desert.

One of the most famous buildings in Petra is the Al-Khazneh, also called the Treasury. It is carved right into the rock and shows a style influenced by Greek culture. Visitors usually enter Petra through a narrow, steep path called the Siq, which leads to these amazing rock-cut buildings. Today, many people come to Petra each year to see its beautiful stone buildings and learn about its history.

Petra is not only a place of old buildings but also of stories. Some believe that the valley near Petra is where Moses struck a rock to bring out water. The area is called Wadi Musa, which means “Valley of Moses.” Petra’s special atmosphere and history continue to inspire people all over the world.