Top 50 Unknown and Interesting Facts About Petra, Jordan

Al-Khazneh, also known as the Treasury, is the most recognizable building in Petra. It is a stunning temple-like facade that is set into the rock. This 40-meter-tall work of art, which features elaborate Greco-Roman architectural influences, was used as a royal burial.

Other notable locations are the Siq, a tiny ravine with tall walls that leads tourists into the center of Petra, and the Monastery (Ad Deir), an equally imposing building at the summit of a difficult climb. In addition, Petra has hundreds of finely carved caves and structures, Roman-style theaters, temples, and tombs that demonstrate the Nabataeans’ inventiveness in urban planning and water management.

Since its rediscovery by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812, Petra has been named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, its magnificent architecture and air of mystery draw tourists and historians from all over the world. This archeological wonder attracts tourists who are eager to take in its timeless beauty because it is not only a monument to the Nabataean civilization but also a representation of Jordan’s rich cultural legacy.

Below, explore 50 lesser-known and intriguing facts about this remarkable city.

1. Petra’s Origins Date Back Over 9,000 Years

• Though the Nabataeans established Petra as their capital in the 4th century BCE, the area had been inhabited by humans as early as 7,000 BCE.

2. Petra’s Real Name Wasn’t Always Petra

• Originally known as “Raqmu” by the Nabataeans, “Petra” is a Greek word meaning “rock,” highlighting the rock-hewn nature of the city.

3. It Was the Capital of the Nabataean Kingdom

• Petra served as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, a powerful trading civilization that controlled many of the trade routes in the Arabian Peninsula.

4. The Nabataeans Were Masters of Water Management

• Despite Petra’s arid environment, the Nabataeans developed advanced water channels, dams, and cisterns, which allowed them to store water during rainy seasons.

5. Petra Was Hidden From the West Until 1812

• Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered Petra in 1812, sharing its beauty with the world after centuries of obscurity.

6. Petra’s Architecture Reflects Diverse Influences

• The Nabataeans incorporated Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles into their buildings, showcasing the city’s status as a cultural melting pot.

7. It’s One of the New Seven Wonders of the World

• Petra was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, solidifying its status as a globally significant archaeological site.

8. The Siq Serves as Petra’s Entrance

• The Siq is a narrow gorge that stretches for over a kilometer, acting as the grand entrance to Petra. Its dramatic cliffs guide visitors toward the city’s heart.

9. The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) Isn’t a Treasury

• Despite its name, the Treasury likely served as a royal tomb or temple rather than a repository for treasures.

10. It’s Been Featured in Many Movies

• Petra has served as a filming location for films like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, bringing the ancient city into pop culture.

11. Petra Was a Thriving Trade Center

• Located on major trade routes, Petra was a central hub for trade in spices, silk, and other goods traveling between Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.

12. Many Structures Were Carved Top-Down

• Nabataean stone carvers worked from the top of the cliffs down to avoid dangerous rock falls as they sculpted their city.

13. Petra Was Abandoned in the 7th Century

• After a combination of earthquakes, trade route shifts, and foreign invasions, Petra was largely abandoned by the 7th century.

14. The Bedouin Tribes Once Lived in Petra’s Ruins

• The Bedouin tribes called Petra home for centuries, living in its caves and using its natural resources.

15. The Treasury is Petra’s Most Iconic Structure

• Known for its intricate facade, the Treasury stands at an impressive 39 meters (127 feet) tall.

16. Petra’s Population Once Reached 20,000 People

• At its peak, Petra may have been home to over 20,000 Nabataeans, making it a significant urban center of its time.

17. Nabataean Script Inspired Arabic Writing

• The Nabataean script was one of the forerunners of the Arabic alphabet, showcasing Petra’s role in linguistic history.

18. The Monastery (Ad-Deir) is Even Bigger than the Treasury

• Standing at 47 meters (154 feet) tall, the Monastery dwarfs the Treasury and is accessible only by climbing over 800 steps.

19. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985 due to its cultural and historical significance.

20. The Colors of Petra Shift Throughout the Day

• The sandstone’s colors change as the sun moves, giving Petra a new appearance depending on the time of day.

21. Petra’s Builders Used Advanced Engineering

• The Nabataeans used a system of pipes and channels to direct water and prevent flash floods, showcasing their engineering prowess.

22. The Colonnaded Street Was Petra’s Main Street

• The Colonnaded Street, flanked by columns, was once the city’s bustling main road, lined with shops and markets.

23. Earthquakes Played a Major Role in Petra’s Abandonment

• Several earthquakes in the 4th and 6th centuries damaged Petra’s structures and water system, contributing to the city’s decline.

24. The Temple of the Winged Lions is One of Petra’s Mysteries

• Little is known about the Temple of the Winged Lions, though its intricate carvings and statues suggest it was a place of importance.

25. Ancient Graffiti Offers Clues About Petra’s History

• Archaeologists have discovered graffiti on Petra’s walls, providing valuable insights into its inhabitants’ lives.