The ancient city of Petra is located in a remote valley in Jordan's southwestern desert. The name Petra is derived from the Greek word ‘petros’, which means rocks. It is believed that the site has been established in 312 BC which makes it one of the oldest cities in the world. The city was the capital of Nabateans, who were ancient southern Arab people that arrived in Jordan around the 6th century BC.
Significance:
Situated between the Red and Dead Sea, Petra was a significant junction between Egypt, Arabia and Syria-Phoenicia during Hellenistic and Roman times. It was also a key hub for the silks of China, spices of India and the incense of Arabia.
Petra is home to roughly 800 tombs, therefore known as the “Royal Tombs”, with the most renowned being The Treasury.
The city is also known as the "Rose City" because of the colour of the stone from which it is carved. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.