Top 8 places to visit in Petra

Shobak Castle, also known as Krak de Montréal, is a medieval fortress built in 1115 by the Crusaders to guard the road to the city of Petra. Its strategically located hilltop position offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape, with towering stone walls showcasing the architectural prowess of the time and remnants of the original chapel still visible. Exploring the castle takes about an hour, with its winding pathways and crumbling towers inviting a sense of history at every turn. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the best light for photography, and the nearby village of Shobak is worth a stroll for local culture. The ascent can be steep, so sturdy shoes are advisable.

The Treasury, or al-Khazneh, is a monumental tomb carved into the sandstone cliffs of Petra in the 1st century AD, attributed to the Nabataean Kingdom. Its intricate Hellenistic façade showcases elaborate columns and sculptures, rising to a height of 40 metres, and draws immediate attention as visitors emerge from the narrow Siq gorge. Allocate time to absorb both the architectural details and the surrounding landscape. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best light for photographs, while the mid-afternoon heat can be stifling. Nearby, the amphitheatre and the path to the Monastery provide additional exploration opportunities worth considering.

Little Petra, or Siq al-Barid, is an archaeological site located just north of Petra, often considered a smaller counterpart to its more famous neighbor. Carved into the sandstone cliffs, the elaborate facades reflect the same Nabatean architectural style, showcasing the artistry of a civilization that thrived in this region from the 4th century BCE. Plan for a leisurely visit to explore the intricate carvings and wall paintings, which are less crowded than those at Petra. Early morning or late afternoon is best for soft light, and it’s possible to combine this visit with a trip to the broader Petra Archaeological Park, which is only a short drive away. Scattered remnants of ancient life add a layer of intrigue to the experience.

The Siq is a narrow canyon that serves as the main entrance to Petra, stretching for approximately 1.2 kilometres and carved into the rock over millions of years. Visitors walk through towering cliffs that rise up to 80 metres on either side, the winding path leading to the stunning façade of the Treasury, Al-Khazneh, which emerges dramatically from the stone. Allocate at least an hour to traverse the Siq, as the striking geological formations are best appreciated at a leisurely pace. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts intricate shadows across the walls. Keep an eye out for the remnants of ancient water channels carved into the rock.

The Monastery, or Ad Deir, is a monumental temple carved into the rock face of Petra during the 1st century AD, renowned for its impressive facade that reaches 47 metres in height. Accessible via a steep path of over 800 steps, its grand entrance is adorned with intricate carvings of columns and motifs, reflecting the Nabatean architectural style. Visiting the Monastery is best done early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. The site offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape and serves as a perfect spot to relax after the climb. The nearby hidden niches and trails provide ample opportunities for exploration.

The Petra Royal Tombs are an impressive series of elaborate mausoleums carved into the rose-red cliffs of Petra, dating back to the 1st century AD during the Nabatean period. Among these, the Urn Tomb, with its grand façade and intricate columns, stands out, showcasing the architectural sophistication of this ancient civilization. Exploration of the tombs requires some effort, as they are perched on higher ground, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Early morning visits are preferable to avoid the heat and crowds, allowing for a more contemplative experience. Nearby, the Street of Facades leads to other significant structures worth your time.

The Petra Roman Theater is a sophisticated engineering marvel carved into the rock face during the first century AD. It could seat around 3,000 spectators and boasts a striking facade adorned with intricate carvings. This impressive structure exemplifies the Hellenistic influence on Nabatean architecture, set against the backdrop of Petra's stunning rock formations. Visiting the theater provides an opportunity to appreciate its acoustics and design, especially during performances that occasionally take place. Arrive early in the day to avoid the heat and enjoy the surrounding archaeological site, which includes stunning tombs and temples along the way, adding to the overall historical experience.

The Byzantine Church, also known as Petra Church, is a 6th-century ecclesiastical site situated in the heart of the ancient city of Petra. Constructed with finely cut stone, its rich mosaic floors and the large apse offer insight into the early Christian period that followed the flourishing Nabataean civilization, showcasing the region's religious evolution. Spend some time exploring the intricate mosaics that depict biblical scenes, best appreciated in the soft morning light. Nearby, you can also visit the remains of the Great Temple and the colonnaded street of Petra, both integral to understanding the site's historical significance.