Ancient city of Petra

Petra is an ancient city in Jordan, the capital of Idumea, later the capital of the Nabataean kingdom. In July 2007, the city was listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, along with the pyramids at Giza (Egypt), the Taj Mahal mausoleum (India) and the Indian city of Machu Picchu (Peru). A visit to Petra will undoubtedly be the highlight of your visit to Jordan.

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Such high status inevitably brings with it an increase in popularity. Unfortunately, the village of Wadi Musa, located at the entrance to Petra, is an ugly cluster of hotels, stores and related establishments, living solely on the proceeds of the tourist industry. But even this cannot mar the impression of the amazing phenomenon that is the ancient city of Petra.

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Video: Mysterious Petra

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Natural Phenomenon

‘ Entrance to the Wadi Musa Valley
‘ Petra.
‘ class=”fancybox” >Petra’s Treasury

Many of these structures – freestanding – have not survived, but those that were carved into natural rocks – such as the Treasury, the monumental tombs, and the High Altar – have survived to this day, and in excellent condition.

When to go

The museum city is officially open from 7.00 to 18.00, but in practice it is open from sunrise to sunset. The best months to visit are from March to May inclusive and September to November inclusive. From December to February it is very cold there, especially at night, occasionally there are snow storms, because the old part of the center of Petra stands at an altitude of 1000 m. From June to August it is very hot, although you can wait out the heat from 12 to 2 pm and make up for it in the evening – the evenings are long at this time.

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