petra

From Wadi Rum, the journey continued to Petra, Jordan’s ancient rose-red city carved into sandstone cliffs. Petra, over 2,000 years old, was a vital hub for Nabataean trade, linking Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean. The Nabataeans engineered intricate water channels and cisterns, allowing the city to flourish in the desert.

Entering through the Siq, a narrow, winding gorge, the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) emerges dramatically — an unforgettable sight, known worldwide from films like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Beyond the Treasury, Petra’s vast site includes tombs, temples, and the Monastery (Ad-Deir), reached after a climb of nearly 800 steps, offering panoramic desert views. The sandstone’s color changes with the light, glowing spectacularly at sunrise and sunset.

After exploring, the modern town of Wadi Musa provided a chance to enjoy local cuisine. Fresh mezze, grilled meats, and traditional dishes like mansaf highlighted Jordanian flavors, completing a day steeped in history and culture.