Petra

Hollywood movies, with its glitz and grandeur, create their own legends, regardless of historical clarity – as in the case of Thailand in Di Caprio’s (lead actor) The Beach. Fortunately, this has not been the case for Petra, famed ancient city, oft depicted in Spielberg’s (director) Indiana Jones series. While the series wove its own tales, Petra has stood firm, a legend all its own, inspiring and interesting.

Petra is said to be “half as old as time,” the “rose red city” of Jordan, referred to by the predominant color of its sandstones. It is an ancient Nabataean city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as of 1985. It was only in 1929 when the Trans-Jordan attempted full excavation of the city, even when Western explorers, such as Johann Ludwig Burckhardt and David Roberts, had caught sight of this archaeological wonder. Upon full excavation, it became Jordan’s most visited site.

Being a full-scale archaeological park, a fairly steep fee is charged at the entrance. Options are for single or double day tours. The expanse of the city will require two days for a full exploration.

The Treasury is one of the city’s relics that should not be missed. This is immediately accessible after going through the Siq, the sandstone canyon that serves as Petra’s entrance. Red and grand, the Treasury is an ancient architectural marvel. Atop this structure is an urn that is said to contain the Pharaoh’s treasure. Beyond the Treasury, one goes through the outer Siq, referred to as the Street of Facades, for the many tomb facades etched on its walls. The Roman Theater, Monastery, and Royal Tombs can be accessed after this stretch.

Travelers to Petra are required a valid passport and visa. Petra and Jordan are relatively safe. However, one should observe respect for the local culture and religion. Modest clothing should be worn in historical and religious sites.