Petra: Siq & Al-Khazneh (Treasury)
الخزنة
After a 1.2 km walk through the Siq gorge, the rose-colored الخزنة suddenly appears, the most breathtaking moment in Petra.
Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom from the 4th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. The Nabataeans controlled the spice trade routes, and the city's buildings were carved directly into red sandstone cliffs. Petra was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1985 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. From the visitor center, walk about 1 km to the entrance of the Siq. The Siq is a natural gorge about 1.2 km long and 3 to 12 metres wide, with cliffs rising up to 80 metres on either side. Along the way you will see ancient water channels and niches. At the end of the gorge, the 40-metre-tall الخزنة (meaning 'treasury') slowly emerges through the crack. It was a filming location for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. The monument was actually the tomb of Nabataean king Aretas IV. Its facade blends Hellenistic columns with Nabataean decoration, and the interior is not open to the public. Tickets: a one-day ticket for visitors staying overnight in Jordan costs 50 dinars, a two-day ticket 55, and a three-day ticket 60 (included with the Jordan Pass). Day-trip visitors pay 90 dinars. The 'Petra by Night' tour (Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, starting at 20:30, about 17 dinars) lights 1,500 candles along the Siq. Walking from the entrance to the Treasury takes 30 to 40 minutes. Horse rides are included in the ticket price, but tips are expected.
Opening hours
Summer 06:00–18:00; winter 06:00–16:00
Nearby sights
- Petra by Night
- Al-Khubtha Trail & Treasury Viewpoint
- Street of Facades
- High Place of Sacrifice
- Petra Theatre
- Royal Tombs, Petra
- Colonnaded Street
- Petra Church