Half as Old as Time “John Burgon”

Carved in stone more than 2500 years ago, the once lost city of Petra is today considered one of the new seven wonders of the world. This magnificent city was once capital to the Nabateans, and was a major trade hub and an oasis for traders and their caravans. Known for its peaceful culture and religious tolerance, traces of all religions and Gods worshipped at the time can be found in the scriptures on the walls of the rose-red city.

Until recently, little was known about the Nabateans. But today, not only do we know more, but entire aspects of their civilizations are brought back to life. From the moment you enter the siq, you are welcomed by the Nabatean soldiers guarding this narrow gorge; and along the way, you will encounter Nabatean monks and worshippers praying to symbols of Gods inscribed on the walls and sacrificing in fascinating spiritual rituals accompanied with Nabatean music.

The siq ends with the astonishing view of Petra’s best-know monument, the treasury, guarded by Nabatean soldiers. The ceremony of the change of guards is not to be missed, in which a brigade of the Nabatean army marches half way across the old city to replace the treasury guards in a majestic display.

Just like trade was at the center of the Nabatean civilization, it is at the center of your adventure in Petra. By visiting the Nabatean market at the heart of Petra not only will you get a first-hand experience of how they used to make coins, leather, pottery, and incenses 2500 years ago, but you will also be able to buy any of those products as your personalized souvenir.