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Petra

Petra is an ancient city in Ma'an Governorate, Jordan, known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system, established around 312 BC as the capital of the Nabataeans. It features iconic structures like Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), Ad Deir (The Monastery), and a large Roman-style theatre, showcasing a blend of Nabataean, Hellenistic, and Roman influences. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and one of the New7Wonders of the World in 2007, Petra was a crucial hub for trade before its decline due to shifting routes and natural disasters.

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9 views1 page

Petra

Petra is an ancient city in Ma'an Governorate, Jordan, known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system, established around 312 BC as the capital of the Nabataeans. It features iconic structures like Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), Ad Deir (The Monastery), and a large Roman-style theatre, showcasing a blend of Nabataean, Hellenistic, and Roman influences. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and one of the New7Wonders of the World in 2007, Petra was a crucial hub for trade before its decline due to shifting routes and natural disasters.

Uploaded by

sulivanjake93
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Petra

●​ Location: Ma'an Governorate, Jordan


●​ Significance: An ancient city half-built, half-carved into the rock.

History and Description:

Petra (from Greek "petra," meaning rock; Arabic: Al-Batrāʾ) is a historical and archaeological city
in southern Jordan, famous for its rock-cut architecture and sophisticated water conduit system.
Established possibly as early as 312 BC as the capital city of the Nabataeans, it is a symbol of
Jordan, as well as its most visited tourist attraction.

The Nabataeans were an ancient Arab people who established a thriving trade network and
carved their city directly into the sandstone cliffs of the region. Access to the city is primarily
through Al-Siq, a narrow, winding canyon that opens dramatically to reveal Al-Khazneh (The
Treasury), Petra's most iconic and intricately carved facade.

Other significant structures in Petra include:

●​ Ad Deir (The Monastery): Another monumental rock-cut building, accessible by a long


climb.
●​ The Theatre: A large Roman-style theatre carved into the side of a mountain, capable of
seating thousands.
●​ The Royal Tombs: A series of monumental tombs carved into the "King's Wall."
●​ Qasr al-Bint: A freestanding temple.

The Nabataeans' mastery of water management allowed Petra to flourish in an arid


environment, collecting rainwater and diverting springs through an elaborate system of channels
and cisterns.

Cultural and Historical Importance:

Petra was a vital hub on the ancient trade routes, particularly for frankincense, myrrh, and
spices. Its unique architecture, blending Nabataean, Hellenistic, and Roman influences, reflects
its rich cultural exchange. The city's abandonment is believed to be due to shifting trade routes
and possibly an earthquake. Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and
was voted one of the New7Wonders of the World in 2007.

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