What is Petra? The Rose City of love is the other name for Petra in Jordan, the most important archaeological site in the world. Famous for its beautiful architecture carved directly from radiant red and pink sandstone rocks, Petra Jordan was once a commercial city and now one of the seven wonders of the globe. Petra in Jordan has stunned the hearts of tourists, archaeologists, and adventurers, earning its place as one of the seven wonders of the world in Jordan.
What is Petra? The History of Jordan’s Rose City
What was Petra before it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site? The strategic crossroads between the Arabian Peninsula and the Mediterranean was Petra Jordan, the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Petra in Jordan prospered as a commercial city where cultures, ideas, and goods were exchanged. The fact that the city was strategically located gave the Nabataeans access to routes and resources to obtain tremendous wealth, which they used in the construction of great monuments, including the famous Treasury Petra and Monastery of Petra.
The Treasury: A Monument of Passion and Mystery
In Petra Jordan’s images of forgotten grandeur, the Treasury Petra is the quintessential symbol of the city. Nicknamed Al-Khazneh by the locals, the finely chiseled cliff face façade has been associated with the building by one of the Nabataean kings symbolizing love and passion. Others argue the Treasury Petra was used to keep treasures in the context of a dowry, thus being evidence of wealth and permanent testimony to love. The Treasury Petra has also featured prominently in popular culture in terms of being the scene in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade where it added to the aura of the city as the place for intrigue and exploration.
The Siq: Petra’s Mysterious Passage of Lovers
In order to arrive at Petra in Jordan, tourists pass through the Siq, the one-mile narrow pass that is the majestic entrance to Petra. The Siq in itself is a natural wonder, with towering cliffs to the sides and striations of red, orange, and pink sandstone creating a majestic aisle. The Siq featured in local myth as one of the lovers’ favorite meetup places, because of the alleys shaded from the din of the city. Emerging from the Siq, travellers get to behold the Treasury Petra, where the experience never fails to leave tourists awestruck.
Inside Petra: What is Inside Petra’s City?
Everyone wants to know, “What is there in Petra?” In Petra, beyond the Treasury, there lies a large city with tombs, temples, and exquisite stone carvings giving testimony to the lifestyle of the Nabataeans. The inner part of Petra features advanced buildings made up of the Temple of Petra Jordan, Royal Tombs, and several sacrificial places. Walking within Petra Jordan, you shall come face to face with monuments depicting tales of dedication, fidelity, and religious rituals.
The Monastery: A Test of Devotion
Another marvel at Petra in Jordan is the Monastery of Petra, also known as Al-Deir. Larger than the Treasury, the Monastery Petra only gains access via hiking nearly 800 steps, subjects that brave enough to try them to a beautiful structure and stunning views. Some believe the Monastery of Petra served for religious purposes, and others think it was the hideaway in which Nabataean lovers begged for blessings. Now, the Monastery Petra opens its gates to individuals to gaze in awe at its enormity and the dedication to create one of architecture’s wonders.
The Royal Tombs: Eternal Love Carved in Stone
In the Middle Eastern city of Petra Jordan, the Royal Tombs abound in stories of love and fidelity. According to history, one of the Nabataean kings was devastated by grief over the loss of his queen and demanded the construction of a tomb in her memory. The elaborately and colourfully decorated tombs stand as evidence of the love that has transcended death. One enters the Royal Tombs to witness the emotional legacy carved in stone, summarizing the essence of Petra Jordan as the city of love, fidelity, and brilliance.
The High Place of Sacrifice: A Sacred Site of Love and Loyalty
The High Place of Sacrifice, Jebel Al-Madhbah, sits at the top of a mountain ridge with dizzying views over Petra. The religious ritual spot is also where the ancient Nabataeans used to pledge sacred promises to one another during love rituals. The journey to the sacred spot remains a body and soul experience bringing tourists in contact with Petra’s ageless stories of commitment. At the High Place of Sacrifice, travellers witness the breathtaking vistas where the sacred promises and love rituals used to happen.
Engaging with Petra’s Modern Guardians
It’s not just preserved by its history but by the Bedouin communities who live and labour there, and with whom they proudly share culture and heritage. The locals, if one takes the time to converse with them, are where one can learn more about Petra’s enduring legacy and the role love stories play in the modern-day Bedouins’ lives. From the swapping of mugs of mint tea to listening to local legends, these activities complete the strong bond between the past and the present at Petra.
Petra by Night: A Journey into the Heart of Romance
For a truly magical experience, Petra by night offers a candlelit journey through the Siq and up to the Treasury. As the sun sets and darkness settles over Petra, thousands of candles illuminate the city’s pathways, transforming it into a place of serene beauty. This unique perspective allows visitors to connect with Petra’s romantic side, feeling the heartbeat of the ancient city under a starlit sky. The sight of the Treasury aglow in candlelight, framed by the dark shadows of the cliffs, is an unforgettable vision that encapsulates the romance and mystery of Petra.
Practical Tips for a Romantic Journey through Petra
For the ultimate magical experience, at Petra by night you’ll take part in a candlelit procession down the Siq to the Treasury. When the sun dips and the shadows descend at Petra, thousands of candles line the corridors of the city and transform the site to one of serene beauty. By seeing Petra in this exclusive manner, you experience the romantic side of the place, soak in the heartbeat of the ancient city under the starry sky. Seeing the Treasury glowing in candlelight amidst the shadows of the rocks is one moment you’ll never forget, encapsulating the mystery and romance of Petra.
Helpful Hints for the Perfect Romantic Holiday to Petra
- Ahead of Time: Experience Petra’s key sights before the crowds by arriving early in the morning when the soft light complements the colours of the sandstone.
- Bring Comfortable Footwear and Water: Petra is sprawling, and you will be walking all day, so be ready with good shoes and lots of water.
- Get a Local Guide: Guides will know how to offer information about Petra’s love stories and hidden passages to enhance the experience.
- Stay for Sunset: Viewing the sunset over Petra is one experience you never want to miss and it gives the trip an air of romance.
- Consider Staying Overnight: Staying overnight in nearby Wadi Musa allows you to experience Petra by Night and enjoy the magical atmosphere of the city.
Petra’s Eternal Appeal
Petra’s Timeless Appeal
What is Petra? It’s the city of love, legacy, and architectural brilliance. Every monument in Petra Jordan is about romance, devotion, and wonder, from the Temple of Petra Jordan to the Treasury Petra and the Monastery of Petra. Visiting Petra is beyond visiting an old city; it’s the experience of humankind’s bond, history, and timelessness.
From the sublime Treasury to the serene alleys of the Siq, Petra appeals to those who cherish beauty, history, and the romance of love. Strolling its halls, you’re not just a visitor; your part of its timeless epic, a Rose City where love, heritage, and adventure unfold.
Yes. The site is well-patrolled, and local Bedouin guides are helpful. Stick to marked trails after dark.
Petra by Night costs JD 17 per person (as of 2025) and runs Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Book at the Visitor Centre before 4 p.m.
Absolutely, licensed guides at the Visitor Centre offer two-hour private photography tours from JD 6
