petra virtual tour google

Petra The Rose-Red City

Over 2,000 years ago, the Nabataeans created Petra—the city of stone. Journey with us behind the iconic facade from the movies, and discover one of the great wonders of the world, forgotten by time itself.

Explore an ancient world wonder, forgotten by time itself.

This Trek is best experienced with headphones

Older than time, bigger than manhattan.

Petra was the capital city of a once-nomadic tribe called the Nabataeans. At its peak, this dusty metropolis housed 250,000 people and measured over 100 square miles—or three times the size of Manhattan. Even today, 800 tombs and more than 100 temples are known to exist, with many more still lying undiscovered.

Petra housed 250,000 people and measured 100sq miles—or 3x the area of Manhattan.

Walk with the Nabataeans

Out here in the arid desert and blazing sun, it's hard to imagine how a massive desert city larger than Manhattan, NY could ever survive.

It's hard to imagine how a desert city larger than Manhattan, NY could ever survive.

Choose from any of the hotspots on the map to explore the route or scroll down to find out more about Petra.

Gateway to the Siq Gateway to the Siq

Dominating the main city entrance are three sandstone blocks thought to represent the god of the mountains, Dushara. Some historians believe they helped watch over Petra's life-giving water supply, crucial for the city and inhabitants existence. These huge 'god blocks' by the entrance once guarded over the city's precious water supply.

Explore Petra with Street View Explore Petra with Street View

Many people think that Petra begins and ends with Al Khaznah - The Treasury - but as you will learn there is so much more to explore within this ancient city. Stay and walk around here for a while or click below to start exploring Petra in its entirety. There's so much more to Petra than just The Treasury. Walk around here to explore or tap on the pin to journey through the city in its entirety.

Nabataean number crunching

Carved tombs

Theatre seats

Nabataean kingdom

Their empire covered southern Jordan and stretched as far east as the Sinai Desert. Historians believe they were highly literate, and one of the most advanced civilisations of the ancient world.

This advanced civilisation inhabited southern Jordan, and as far east as the Sinai Desert.

Early Nabataean history

The Nabataeans were desert nomads who rose to power in the 4th century BC. Using advanced skills in engineering and trade, they eventually created their capital city of Petra, in southern Jordan.

The Nabataeans were desert nomads and traders who rose to power in the 4th century BC.

The Nabataeans were masters of storing and moving water to and around their city. It’s said they could locate water anywhere in the desert, giving them a safe refuge to retreat to when needed.

They were experts at storing and moving water, and could locate desert springs from nowhere.

What's especially amazing about Petra's grand amphitheatre is it was carved entirely from the rock face, unlike conventional Roman theatres which were made with individual bricks.

Their entire theatre was carved from rock, unlike Roman ones which were built with bricks.

Qasr al-Bint

Translated from Arabic, its name means "The palace of the girl", as locals once believed this building belonged to a daughter of the Pharaohs.

Locals believe "The Palace of the girl" once held a daughter of the Pharaohs.

It'll take an hour's climb and 800 steps to reach here, but the views across the city are worth it. Although it's hotter, the best time to go is the afternoon when the facade is lit up by the sun.

It takes an hour and 800 steps to reach this holy place, but the views are amazing.

Underground tombs

Recent excavations of The Treasury showed the path used to be several metres lower. Further digging revealed 3 well-preserved tombs, human bones, and even remains of frankincense in a stone altar.

Excavations here revealed 3 tombs, human bones, and a stone altar containing frankincense.

The Nabataeans didn't just carve tombs and temples from the rock. They built their homes too—which can still be explored today. Be sure to knock first though. Some are still inhabited by Bedouins.

If you explore the caves, be sure to knock first. Some are still inhabited by Bedouins.

The Treasury

Years ago, a kind of urban myth came about that The Treasury once stored the city's riches. Hoping to dislodge the goodies, passing Bedouins used to fire shots, and the holes are still there today.

This place is riddled with bullet holes, where Bedouins tried to dislodge the mythical gold.

High Place of Sacrifice

Historians can't quite agree what was sacrificed here on these altars. Most likely animals, but possibly humans. What they do know is it's a heck of a walk up here, and you should take extra water.

Historians can’t agree what was sacrificed here. Probably animals, possibly humans. Gulp.

Royal tombs

The views here are as beautiful as the tombs themselves. Rich red, orange, purple and pink—depending on the time of day. No wonder Nabataean royalty chose this as their final resting place.

Up here, the view’s as pretty as the tombs. No wonder the royals chose to be interred here.

Preserving Petra

Over 2,500 tourists pass through Petra each day—and every time they climb a winding staircase or touch a sandstone wall, a tiny piece of the city disappears forever. Some parts of The Treasury have receded by 40mm in just 10 years. For the authorities, it’s about striking the right balance between a great tourist experience, and preserving a precious past. And yet, in a cruel twist of irony, regional conflict means visitor numbers are now at their lowest in years. Petra may be about to face it toughest battle yet.

Explore Petra with Queen Rania Al Abdullah

Join Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan and Wander through the lost city of Petra. Experience for yourself why it's one of the Smithsonian Institution's 28 places to see before you die.

See why Petra's one of the Smithsonian Institutions's 28 places to see before you die.

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A virtual trek through Petra with Google Cardboard

Jan 18, 2017

[[read-time]] min read

Last year, we launched a virtual tour of Petra and more than 30 historical sites across Jordan in Google Street View. The interactive Maps experience took visitors on an intimate journey into Jordan’s lost city of stone—and now, we’ve made this historic trek even more immersive with a 360º experience for Google Cardboard .  

We’ve used 360º mapping, aerial imagery and millions of photos stitched together, to recreate six of Petra’s most beautiful and iconic panoramas for you to explore. Audio narration, interactive hotspots and sound effects guide you as you follow the footsteps of the ancient Nabataeans. This 2000-year-old civilization miraculously transformed the harshest of deserts into an oasis of life and culture.

Wander through the winding pathway of Al Siq to the Treasury, Petra’s most famous landmark. Look all around in 360º to explore every detail of this elaborate carved facade recognizable from movies like “Indiana Jones” and “Transformers.”

Make your way past Petra’s carved theatre and hidden tombs until you reach Al Deir, or the Monastery. No trip to Petra is complete without staring up in awe at its grandeur. The doorway alone is eight meters tall!

Of course, nothing can compare to visiting Petra in real life. But now anyone with an internet connection can trek this remarkable UNESCO Heritage Site like never before—and we hope this 360º experience inspires a new generation of tourists to come to visit the rose-red city for themselves. Start your tour now on your mobile phone at  g.co/PetraVR .

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You can tour the lost stone city of Petra without ever leaving your chair

Thanks to Google’s newest 360-degree experience for Google Cardboard , you can take a trip through Petra and more than 30 historical sites across Jordan. It’s an expansion of a project that Google first launched in 2016, whereupon it broadened its Street View tool to give users a  virtual tour  of the Rose City. But now, thanks to the addition of virtual reality, it’s more immersive than ever .

Using 360-degree mapping, aerial imagery, and millions of photos that the team stitched together, Google has made it possible for us to virtually explore six of Petra’s most famous panoramas. Complete with audio narration, interactive hotspots, and sound effects, Google is hoping to bring the desert straight to you. There is no need to book a plane ticket or even make your way to a museum — rather, from the comfort of your own home, you will be able to explore a 2,000-year-old civilization.

History buffs can check out the Treasury, Petra’s most famous landmark, and see all of it in 360-degree detail. Or, you can see the eight-meter tall doorway of Al Deir or the famous Monastery of Petra. “Of course, nothing can compare to visiting Petra in real life,” the Google team admitted, “But now anyone with an internet connection can trek this remarkable UNESCO Heritage Site like never before — and we hope this 360-degree experience inspires a new generation of tourists to come to visit the rose-red city for themselves.”

This is by no means the first time the tech giant has attempted to make faraway lands and cultural institutions more accessible to the masses. Google Arts & Culture has been working on putting together similar tours for years and has offered in-depth looks at some of the world’s most sought-after tourist destinations, from the Statue of Liberty to Robben Island.

So if you’re looking to take a mini-vacation without ever leaving your desk, you can start with Petra on your mobile phone at  g.co/PetraVR .

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Sure -- you won't be able to score a 4K TV or the latest gaming console, but there's no reason you can't find something to satisfy your tech cravings without breaking the bank. To help you wade through all the great gear out there, we put together this guide to the best tech under $100. Enjoy! Roku Streaming Stick+

You Can Go On A Virtual Tour Of Petra, The Ancient Rose City, From Your Living Room

Walk around the magnificent ‘rose city’ without having to get up from your chair.

You’ve probably seen the iconic facade of The Treasury in movies, and almost definitely on multiple Instagram feeds in the past few years. This was in large part thanks to the collaboration between Google and Queen Rania of Jordan, where a concerted effort was made not only to boost tourist numbers but to also help preserve the wonder and awe of the stone city for future generations.

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And that’s exactly what they’ve done. But now, thanks to being in either quarantine or self-isolation, multiple present-day generations also have the opportunity to digitally explore the ancient city and learn of the history and culture of its once-nomadic Arabian inhabitants, the Nabateans.

Although there is no substitute for seeing Petra in person, the benefit of digitally visiting the city is that it can be done in comfort and peace. Now, there is no need to suffer the stifling desert heat and contribute to the wasting away of its sandstone steps and walls. (Did you know that in the past ten years, some parts of The Treasury have receded by up to 40mm?)

However, the best part of the digital exploration of Petra is that you can go at your own pace, click back and forth as much as you want, and see the curiosities captured by Google’s Street View, along its journey on Queen Rania’s back.

From the Gateway To The Siq, through the mile-long gorge, past The Treasury, and up to The Monastery, viewers take a narrated tour using Google Street View to see the sites in spectacular detail as well as being able to learn of the historic finds and developments made over the years.

👉 Discover the rose red city here.

And once you’re done exploring Petra, check out the other offerings by Google Maps . For example, explore The Grand Canyon , climb Mt Fuji , go underwater at The Great Barrier Reef , or amaze yourself at Everest Base Camp , among many other digital explorations available.

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Take Google’s virtual tour of Petra, the UNESCO-world heritage city in Jordan

More than 2,000 years ago the Nabataeans created Petra , the city of stone. You can now discover one of the great wonders of the world, forgotten by time itself.

Explore Petra, the rose-red city

Probably one of the most liked travel pictures on Instagram.

Many people think that Petra begins and ends with Al Khaznah – The Treasury – but there is much more to explore within this wonderful ancient city. Petra is a historical and archaeological city in southern Jordan, definitely worth to see once in your life!

Click here to take the virtual tour and discover this wonderful place.

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Discover Petra on a virtual tour with Google Street View

Google Street View has mapped the ancient city of Petra, providing armchair travellers with a video tour of its historic sights – with commentary by Queen Rania of Jordan

War and terrorist attacks may have put an end to tourism in the Middle East – at least in the short to medium term – but armchair travellers can now take a tour around one of the region’s most famous sites without leaving their desk. Google Street View has launched a virtual tour of the ancient city of Petra , declared one of the “new” seven wonders of the world in 2001.

Narrated by Queen Rania Al-Abdullah of Jordan, the video takes viewers on a journey along the narrow path through the rose-coloured rock to the famous facade of Al Khaznah (the Treasury), past the Street of Facades and the 8,000-seat amphitheatre, to the Monastery – carved deep into the mountain – as well as visiting the surrounding tombs and temple.

It took several days for the trekker – the person tasked with carrying a backpack-mounted set of cameras – to methodically walk around the site, capturing it from many angles.

Petra is one of 30 historical sites in Jordan launched today on Google Street View and is the latest Middle Eastern attraction to be explored, following the Pyramids of Giza , the Liwa Desert and the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

It joins many other iconic world attractions to have been mapped, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Adelie penguin rookery at Cape Royds in Antarctica, Everest base camp and the Amazon. Google Street View launched in the US in 2007 and now covers 65 countries worldwide.

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A virtual trek through Petra with Google Cardboard – Earth Topo

) A virtual trek through Petra with Google Cardboard

Last year, we launched a  virtual tour of Petra  and more than 30 historical sites across Jordan in Google Street View. The interactive Maps experience took visitors on an intimate journey into Jordan’s lost city of stone. And now. We’ve made this historic trek even more immersive with  a 360º experience for Google Cardboard .  

We’ve used 360º mapping, aerial imagery and millions of photos stitched together. To recreate six of Petra’s most beautiful and iconic panoramas for you to explore. Audio narration. Interactive hotspots and sound effects guide you as you follow the footsteps of the ancient Nabataeans. This 2000-year-old civilization miraculously transformed the harshest of deserts into an oasis of life and culture.

A virtual trek through Petra with Google Cardboard

Wander through the winding pathway of Al Siq to the Treasury. Petra’s most famous landmark. Look all around in 360º to explore every detail of this elaborate carved facade recognizable from movies like “Indiana Jones” and “Transformers.”

Make your way past Petra’s carved theatre. And hidden tombs until you reach Al Deir. Or the Monastery. No trip to Petra is complete without staring up in awe at its grandeur. The doorway alone is eight meters tall!

Of course. Nothing can compare to visiting Petra in real life. But now anyone with an internet connection can trek this remarkable UNESCO Heritage Site like never before. And we hope this 360º experience inspires a new generation of tourists to come to visit the rose-red city for themselves. Start your tour now on your mobile phone at  g.co/PetraVR .

Get a closer look with Street View in Google Earth VR (earthtopomaps.com)

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Last year, we launched a virtual tour of Petra and more than 30 historical sites across Jordan in Google Street View. We’ve made this historic trek even more immersive with a 360º experience for Google Cardboard. Make your way past Petra’s carved theatre. And hidden tombs until you reach Al Deir. Of course. Nothing can compare to visiting Petra in real life. But now anyone with an internet connection can trek this remarkable UNESCO Heritage Site like never before.

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Google Cardboard

You can now explore the wonders of the ancient city of petra with google cardboard.

Petra is an ancient city found in southern Jordan that is known for its architecture. What’s unique about the city is that all of the buildings and water systems were carved right into the surrounding rocks. Last year, Google released a virtual tour of the city within Maps but now they have created a full 360-degree experience for Cardboard .

The entire Google Cardboard experience is interactive, allowing you to listen to audio narration, sound effects, and learn more about specific landmarks along the tour. By simply placing your phone into the headset, you can look around and explore some of the city’s breathtaking sights.

The tour of the 2,000-year-old city takes you from Al Siq, through the Treasury and theatre, and ends at the famous Monastery.

To check out this new virtual tour of Petra, make sure you have a Google Cardboard in hand and visit g.co/PetraVR on your mobile phone. If you want to go through the tour on your desktop, head on over to the Petra VR website  and launch that interactive experience on your computer.

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360° Panoramic and Gigapixel images from ‘The Lost City of Petra’

In November 2016 while on the AITO 2016 Conference in Jordan we were able to capture some wonderful images around the ancient site at Petra in Jordan.

We took the less travelled route to the site that goes up and through the mountains to the north of the ancient city, the images below show some of the stunning views experienced on the way. This route was used by the Nabataean people 2,000 year ago. Ascending to 1,100m in places each turn and corner offers stunning views over the sandstone mountains, local guides essential for a safe passage along the narrow tracks giving way to a high rocky plateau. The first sight of Petra via this route is ‘The Monastery’, then down the Nabataean steps into Petra, past the ‘Royal Tombs’ and on to ‘The Treasury’ before exiting via ‘al-Siq’ toward the modern town of Wadi Musa.

The other images around Petra were shot on the Nikon D810 with Nikkor 10.5mm lens on a monopod. In addition to the static images, we have some 360° video clips from the visit, here on the GoPro VR site and here on YouTube.

• GoPro VR Link
• YouTube Link

We’d like to share these images of Petra, if you’d like to use them in your site or blog, just use the embedding code at the foot of this page.

Click on a thumbnail to display the panoramic image in full screen.

Northern High Route 01

The less travelled route to the Lost City of Petra, this goes up and through the mountains to the north of the ancient city with stunning views experienced on the way. This route was used by the Nabataean people 2,000 year ago. Ascending to 1,100m in places each turn and corner offers stunning views over the sandstone mountains, local guides essential for a safe passage along the narrow tracks giving way to a high rocky plateau.

Northern High Route 02

Northern High Route 03

Northern High Route 04

Northern High Route 05

Northern High Route 06

Northern High Route 07

Northern High Route 08

Northern High Route 09

Northern High Route 10

Northern High Route 11

The Monastery (Ad Deir) 01

It is one of the largest monuments in Petra, measuring 47m wide by 48.3m high. It was built on the model of the Khazna but here the bas- reliefs are replaced by niches to house sculptures. A columned portico extends of the façade; the interior is occupied by two side benches and altar against the rear wall. It was used as a biclinium for the meetings of religious associations. And dates to the early 2nd century AD, during the reign of King Rabel II. In the hall was reused as a Christian chapel and crosses were carved in the rear wall thus the name “Monastery” (Dayr in Arabic).

The Monastery (Ad Deir) 02

Winged lion temple 01.

The column bases consist of ring marble around the plain base. Brown marble was used on the platform columns and white marble on the others. Some of the elaborate capitals have representations of winged lions at the corners, hence the name of the temple. It is thought that these were the capitals of the platform columns. The main floor of the temple was paved with white and brown banded marble, while the platform   was paved with white and black marble. The interior was lavishly decorated with marble, plaster and stucco. Plaster affixes, representing human heads, tragic masks and floral designs were found. The temple most probably had a curved ceiling, and the roof was tiled.

Winged Lion Temple 02

The column bases consist of ring marble around the plain base. Brown marble was used on the platform columns and white marble on the others. Some of the elaborate capitals have representations of winged lions at the corners, hence the name of the temple. It is thought that these were the capitals of the platform columns. The main floor of the temple was paved with white and brown banded marble, while the platform was paved with white and black marble. The interior was lavishly decorated with marble, plaster and stucco. Plaster affixes, representing human heads, tragic masks and floral designs were found. The temple most probably had a curved ceiling, and the roof was tiled.

Byzantine Church

Amidst Petra’s ancient temples is a Byzantine church dating from the 5th and 6th centuries. Still being excavated, Petra Church contains some extraordinary mosaics. The Petra Church seems to have first been built over Nabataean and Roman remains around 450 AD. It may have been a major 5th- and 6th-century cathedral, which is intriguing given the other evidence of Petra’s decline after a 363 AD earthquake.

Palace Tomb

Located to the north of the Corinthian tomb, the Palace Tomb measures 49 meters in width and 46 meters in height.  The lower part consists of 12 decorated columns and four gates. Above the threshold lie 18 pillars.   The four gates of the cemetery lead to four rooms for burial, with some graves carved in the walls. This name was given to the cemetery as it resembles a palace.

Corinthian Tomb

The Corinthian Tomb, which lies after the Silk Tomb, was built between 40 and 70 AD. The façade measures 27.55 meters in width and 26 meters in height. t resembles the Silk Tomb and the Treasury, particularly in the upper part, but is less decorated. There are four water basins in the front and on the side, which were used in the cleansing rituals. There are four rooms inside the tomb, three of which are square-shaped and lie on the left with one on the right that has an area of 13 m².

The Urn Tomb

This derived its name from the jar that crowns the pediment.It was probably constructed around 70 AD. It is preceded by a deep courtyard with colonnades on two sides. High up in the facade there are 3 niches which give on to small burial chambers, but which was adapted in 446 AD to serve as a Byzantine church.

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) 01

TheTreasury, or Al Khazna. It is almost 40 meters high and intricately decorated with Corinthian capitals, friezes, figures and more. The Treasury is crowned by a funerary urn, which according to local legend conceals a pharaoh’s treasure. Although the original function is still a mystery, The Treasury was probably constructed in the 1st century BC. The Treasury consists of two floors with a width of 25.30 meters and a height of 39.1 meters. The purpose of the Treasury is unclear: some archaeologists believed it to be a temple, while others thought it was a place to store documents. However, the most recent excavation here has unearthed a graveyard beneath the Treasury.

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) 02

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) 03

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) 04

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) 05

The siq opens up onto Petra’s most magnificent façade; the Treasury, or Al Khazna. It is almost 40 meters high and intricately decorated with Corinthian capitals, friezes, figures and more. The Treasury is crowned by a funerary urn, which according to local legend conceals a pharaoh’s treasure. Although the original function is still a mystery, The Treasury was probably constructed in the 1st century BC, However, in reality the urn represented a memorial for royalty. The Treasury consists of two floors with a width of 25.30 meters and a height of 39.1 meters.  The purpose of the Treasury is unclear: some archaeologists believed it to be a temple, while others thought it was a place to store documents. However, the most recent excavation here has unearthed a graveyard beneath the Treasury. 

It is the ancient main entrance leading to the city of Petra, starts at the Dam and ends at the opposite side of the vault, a split rock with a length of about 1200m and a width of 3 to 12m, and height up to about 80m; most of the rock is natural and another part was sculptured by the Nabataeans.  The Siq, the main road that leads to the city, starts from the Dam and ends at the Treasury.  It is a rock canal that measures 160 meters in length, 3 to 12 meters in width and reaches up to 80 meters in height. The main part of the Siq is created by natural rock formation and the rest is carved by the Nabataeans. At the beginning of the Siq, one can still view the remains of the city’s gate. On both sides of the Siq, there are channels to draw water from Wadi Musa (the Valley of Moses), from outside.

It was renovated by the government in 1964 in the same way originally built by the Nabataens. This dam was built to protect their capital from floods that arrived during the seasonal rain from the mountains and hills across the valley. The dam protected the city of Petra by redirecting the flood waters into a tunnel, which was later titled the ‘Dark Tunnel’. Proving to be successful, the dam thus represented the Natabataean’s skillful and modern infrastructure. During the excavation, it was found that the original name of the old city was Raqeem. However, upon their arrival, the Greeks renamed the city ‘Petra,’ meaning the rock.

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About Panoramic Imaging

Our small specialist team of photographers and programmers based in South West London are expert in the shooting, production and delivery of World Class 360° imagery for organisations. Experienced, dedicated and focussed since 1997, we have worked all over the world to establish and maintain long term relationships with leading companies and corporations with global reach.

We believe in going beyond the conventional, we have a 'can do' attitude, we offer bespoke solutions, we strive to innovate and our aim is always to exceed expectations.

Our USP... We bridge the gap between creating great 360° images and actually delivering them in a professional way online. One without the other is just half the job... We don't just create virtual tours, we create enterprise class content and solutions however ambitious the project.

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Your virtual sightseeing tour of Petra

We created Tiny Escapes to help bring joy to your day in these unprecedented times. Follow us here or on Instagram and Facebook for more little distractions.

Want to “step” into history at one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites? Click through the Google Maps Street View links below for a virtual tour of Petra —you’ll see why it’s been named a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven New Wonders of the World! (Our tip? Hold your cursor down on each Google Maps screen and drag it left and right for 360° views.)

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You Can Go On A Virtual Tour Of The Ancient Rose City Right From Your Living Room

Walk around the magnificent Petra without having to get up from your chair.

You’ve probably seen the iconic façade of The Treasury in movies, and almost definitely on multiple Instagram feeds in the past few years. This was in large part thanks to the collaboration between Google and Queen Rania of Jordan, where a concerted effort was made not only to boost tourist numbers but to also help preserve the wonder and awe of the stone city for future generations.

View this post on Instagram

And that’s exactly what they’ve done. But now, thanks to being in either quarantine, self-isolation or lockdown, multiple present-day generations also have the opportunity to digitally explore the ancient city and learn of the history and culture of its once-nomadic Arabian inhabitants, the Nabateans.

Although there is no substitute for seeing Petra in person, the benefit of digitally visiting the city is that it can be done in comfort and peace. Now, there is no need to suffer the stifling desert heat and contribute to the wasting away of its sandstone steps and walls. (Did you know that in the past ten years, some parts of The Treasury have receded by up to 40mm?)

However, the best part of the digital exploration of Petra is that you can go at your own pace, click back and forth as much as you want, and see the curiosities captured by Google’s Street View, along its journey on Queen Rania’s back.

From the Gateway To The Siq, through the mile-long gorge, past The Treasury, and up to The Monastery, viewers take a narrated tour using Google Street View to see the sites in spectacular detail as well as being able to learn of the historic finds and developments made over the years.

👉 Discover the rose red city here.

And once you’re done exploring Petra, check out the other offerings by Google Maps . For example, explore The Grand Canyon , climb Mt Fuji , go underwater at The Great Barrier Reef , or amaze yourself at Everest Base Camp , among many other digital explorations available.

See More: MIFF Pushes Back Cinema Screenings And Expands Digital Range In Changes To The Program

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You Can Go On A Virtual Tour Of Petra — The Ancient Rose City, From Your Living Room

Walk around the magnificent Petra without having to get up from your chair.

You’ve probably seen the iconic facade of The Treasury in movies, and almost definitely on multiple Instagram feeds in the past few years. This was in large part thanks to the collaboration between Google and Queen Rania of Jordan, where a concerted effort was made not only to boost tourist numbers but to also help preserve the wonder and awe of the stone city for future generations.

View this post on Instagram

And that’s exactly what they’ve done. But now, thanks to being in either quarantine, self-isolation or lockdown, multiple present-day generations also have the opportunity to digitally explore the ancient city and learn of the history and culture of its once-nomadic Arabian inhabitants, the Nabateans.

Although there is no substitute for seeing Petra in person, the benefit of digitally visiting the city is that it can be done in comfort and peace. Now, there is no need to suffer the stifling desert heat and contribute to the wasting away of its sandstone steps and walls. (Did you know that in the past ten years, some parts of The Treasury have receded by up to 40mm?)

However, the best part of the digital exploration of Petra is that you can go at your own pace, click back and forth as much as you want, and see the curiosities captured by Google’s Street View, along its journey on Queen Rania’s back.

From the Gateway To The Siq, through the mile-long gorge, past The Treasury, and up to The Monastery, viewers take a narrated tour using Google Street View to see the sites in spectacular detail as well as being able to learn of the historic finds and developments made over the years.

👉 Discover the rose red city here.

And once you’re done exploring Petra, check out the other offerings by Google Maps . For example, explore The Grand Canyon , climb Mt Fuji or amaze yourself at Everest Base Camp , among many other digital explorations available.

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

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The Ultimate Guide to Petra: 15 Key Sites to Explore

Exploring petra’s hidden gems.

Are you ready to embark on a journey to one of the world’s most captivating ancient cities? Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the desert canyons of Jordan, beckons with its fascinating history, awe-inspiring architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore 15 key sites within Petra that will leave you spellbound. So grab your virtual walking shoes and let’s dive into the wonders of Petra!

Looking to experience the wonders of Petra? Look no further than One Nation Travel, the premier provider of top-notch Petra tours from Amman .

Introduction

Hidden away in the rugged mountains of southern Jordan, Petra stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the ancient Nabatean civilization. Known as the “Rose City” due to the pink hue of its rock-cut architecture, Petra has captured the imaginations of travelers and archaeologists alike for centuries. This guide will take you on a virtual tour of Petra’s most remarkable sites, providing insights into its rich history and guiding you through its must-see attractions.

History of Petra

To truly appreciate Petra’s wonders, it’s essential to understand its historical significance. The ancient Nabateans, an industrious Arab people, established Petra as their capital around 312 BCE. Located at the crossroads of major trade routes, the city thrived as a center of commerce and cultural exchange. Its prosperity allowed the Nabateans to create a masterpiece of rock-cut architecture that has stood the test of time.

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

No visit to Petra would be complete without beholding the iconic Treasury. As you emerge from the narrow gorge known as the Siq, you’ll be greeted by the magnificent sight of this monumental facade carved into the sandstone cliffs. The Treasury’s intricate details, including friezes, columns, and statues, hint at the grandeur and wealth of the Nabatean civilization. Many believe it served as a mausoleum or a treasury, adding to its allure and mystery.

The journey to Petra begins with a walk through the Siq, a narrow canyon that acts as the main entrance to the ancient city. As you traverse the winding path, flanked by towering cliffs, you’ll feel a sense of anticipation and wonder. The Siq reveals unique geological formations, such as colorful striations in the rocks, created over millions of years. This dramatic passage builds the anticipation for the grand reveal that awaits at its end.

The Monastery (Al-Deir)

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Monastery awaits atop a rugged cliff, accessible via a challenging hike or by riding a donkey along a winding path. The Monastery, larger than the Treasury, showcases an equally impressive facade but with a more remote and serene atmosphere. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, making the trek well worth the effort.

The Royal Tombs

The Royal Tombs, a collection of grand burial sites, provide a glimpse into the funerary practices of the Nabateans. Among these tombs, the Tomb of the Obelisks stands out with its towering obelisks and intricate carvings. The Tomb of the Roman Soldier showcases a fusion of Nabatean and Roman architectural styles, while the Urn Tomb impresses with its sheer size and ornate facade. These tombs offer a window into the lavishness of ancient Nabatean burials.

The Great Temple

Step into the sacred realm of the Great Temple, where religious ceremonies and rituals once took place. This expansive complex reflects the grandeur of the Nabatean’s religious practices. The temple’s impressive architecture, including colonnaded halls and intricate carvings, leaves visitors in awe of the craftsmanship and dedication of the ancient builders. Explore the sacred precinct and imagine the spiritual significance it held for the Nabateans.

The Street of Facades

A stroll along the Street of Facades takes you past an array of ancient tombs, each showcasing unique architectural styles and decorative elements. Admire the intricate carvings adorning these final resting places and imagine the lives of those who once walked these streets. The Street of Facades offers a glimpse into the daily life and burial practices of the Nabateans, revealing their artistic sensibilities and cultural beliefs.

The High Place of Sacrifice

Perched high above Petra, the High Place of Sacrifice offers panoramic vistas of the entire city and the surrounding desert landscape. This sacred site played a crucial role in Nabatean religious rituals, where offerings and sacrifices were made to honor the gods. Ascend the steps carved into the rocky slopes and be rewarded with breathtaking views that evoke a sense of spiritual transcendence.

The Petra Theater

As you make your way through Petra, you’ll encounter the Petra Theater, a magnificent example of ancient Roman architecture. Carved into the mountainside, this well-preserved theater could accommodate up to 8,500 spectators. Imagine the lively performances and events that took place in this grand venue, which served as a cultural hub for the Nabateans and later the Romans. Sit on the stone seats and transport yourself back in time.

The Colonnaded Street

The Colonnaded Street served as the main thoroughfare of ancient Petra, bustling with activity and commerce. Stroll along this well-preserved street and observe the ruins of ancient shops and markets that once thrived with merchants and traders from all corners of the ancient world. Visualize the vibrant atmosphere of a city teeming with life, where goods from distant lands exchanged hands and cultures mingled.

The Great Temple Complex

Dedicated to the Nabatean gods, the Great Temple Complex showcases the blending of Nabatean and Roman architectural influences. The Temple of the Winged Lions, with its impressive facade adorned with carved lions, stands as a testament to the skills of Nabatean craftsmen. Explore the sacred precinct and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura that permeated this grand complex, imagining the rituals and ceremonies that once took place here.

The Museum at Petra

To delve deeper into Petra’s history and unearthed artifacts, a visit to the Museum at Petra is a must. The museum houses a vast collection of archaeological finds, including statues, pottery, and jewelry, offering insights into the daily life and cultural achievements of the Nabateans. Engage with the exhibits, read the informative displays, and gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of Petra in ancient times.

The Royal Tombs Trail

For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the Royal Tombs Trail provides an opportunity to explore Petra’s rugged landscapes and discover hidden tombs along the way. The trail offers stunning viewpoints, including the Ad-Deir viewpoint, which provides a breathtaking perspective of the Monastery from a different vantage point. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings as you hike through canyons and rocky terrain.

Tips for Visiting Petra

When planning your visit to Petra, consider the following tips to make the most of your experience:

• Best time to visit: Petra can be visited year-round, but spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather for exploring.
• Entrance fees and passes: Purchase a Jordan Pass, which includes the visa fee and access to Petra, to save on entry costs.
• Dress code and practical considerations: Wear comfortable shoes, dress modestly, bring sunscreen and a hat, and carry plenty of water during your visit.
• Guided tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of Petra’s history and significance.
• Restaurants and facilities: There are restaurants and facilities available both inside and outside Petra, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Petra, with its remarkable architecture, rich history, and awe-inspiring landscapes, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the ancient Nabatean civilization. Exploring the key sites within Petra offers a journey through time, allowing you to witness the splendor and magnificence of a lost world. So, whether you’re an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, make sure to include Petra in your bucket list. Uncover the secrets of this ancient city and be captivated by its timeless beauty.

• How long does it take to explore Petra? Exploring Petra thoroughly can take one to two days, depending on your pace and the sites you wish to visit.
• Are there guided tours available in Petra? Yes, guided tours led by experienced local guides are available in Petra and can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the sites.
• Can I climb to the top of the Monastery? Yes, you can climb to the top of the Monastery, but be prepared for a challenging hike. Alternatively, you can rent a donkey to reach the summit.
• Is there accommodation available near Petra? Yes, there are several accommodation options available near Petra, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and campsites.
• Are there restaurants and facilities inside Petra? Yes, there are restaurants, cafes, and facilities such as restrooms and souvenir shops available inside Petra to cater to the needs of visitors.

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World  /  Middle East  /  Jordan  / Ancient city Petra, Jordan

Ancient city Petra, Jordan

Petra — The Glory Of Decay

The Moon was lighting the road much better than streetlights lined up along the sidewalks. I walked in what appeared to be a complete silence. It was hard to imagine what would wait for me around a corner. Strange dome-like rocks watched me as I passed by their candle-lit caverns on my way to the City of the Dead. The trail became a narrow path between vertical red walls. The Moon couldn't reach here so I kept walking in silence in the dim light of streetlights that followed the long winding path. All I could hear were gusts of warm wind and rustling of lizards. Suddenly I saw a bright light ahead of me: in a few meters the walls opened to let me out into a candle-lit square. There was a man in a long white robe in the middle of the square. He raised his arms and I heard a flute. His music filled the entire space, flowing between the rocks, reflecting of yellow-red walls then disappearing in the endless night sky full of stars. An Arab stood in front of the Pharaoh Treasury, the grand building that overshadowed the entire ensemble. It could be easily mistaken for an ancient Greek temple if it would have had walls. But there were no walls. The façade, columns, porticos, statues, and steps leading into the dark inner rooms were carved directly in the rock with great precision... Light of hundreds of candles was illuminating the square. It seemed (or, perhaps, it was really so) I was a part of an ancient Pagan ritual...

Petra... this is how I entered Petra for the first time several years ago.

Petra is a city that lives in four dimensions. Or "lived" to be exact... My mind doesn't want to accept the fact that the majority of the breathtaking monumental rock castles are only random parts of a gigantic centuries-old multinational Necropolis. Historically (the Pyramids of Egypt, for example) Necropolis was built to stand for thousands of years. Temples and other religious structures were supposed to survive through centuries, and simple living quarters had a short life serving one or several generations at best.

No, Petra was not designed as Necropolis. Deep under the rocks, there once lived around twenty thousand people. There were markets, saunas, villas with swimming pools, a sophisticated water conduit system, theaters, government buildings, and the senate... it's just that the time, earthquakes, wind, and sand destroyed and hid away all mundane...

When thinking of Petra, I always want to add one more dimension that would take me into the depth of the mountain, as conventional geometry doesn't seem to be enough to describe carefully carved centuries-old rooms, caverns, storage spaces, altars, and obelisks.

Mysteries of The History

Similar to stone steps that lead to the High Place of Sacrifice, the giant altar on top of Zibb Attuf (the Bedouin name of the mountain ridge), the entire atmosphere here is filled with time that flows slowly like ancient blood of human sacrifices to the God of Sun.

Arabs that currently populate Jordan territory are rather skeptical about Old Testimony being an accurate historical document, and so they usually start their stories with "a hard-working Arab tribe of Nabataeans" settling down in Wadi Musa (commonly known as the Valley of Moses) in VI BCE. Later Greeks would change the name to "Petra" which means "a rock" or "a mountain".

The main source of Nabataean wealth were fees and duties collected from caravans for passing through their territory as well as for guarding and escorting them along the way. Among other sources of income were taxes collected from neighboring tribes and robbery activities. The Nabataean influence spread from Sinai to Damask. Rumors of the flourishing country attracted Rome's attention, but they couldn't concur Petra right away: mountains that surrounded Petra guarded the city very well, and it was relatively easy to protect the only city entrance (2 — 5 meters wide gorge called Siq) secured between vertical 80-meter high natural walls. However in 106 BCE Nabataeans lost to Emperor Trayan, and were absorbed by Roman Empire.

Petra has flourished for two more centuries under the rule of Rome, but has eventually lost its importance due to developing marine navigation on the Red Sea. When it happened Romans decided to leave the city. The Byzantines came to Petra during the time of neglect and repurposed some of the major structures to serve as Christian temples.

Arab invasion in the VIIth century didn't make much impact on Petra's culture and history. Petra was last mentioned in the XIth century during Kingdom of Jerusalem. Ruins of Crusaders' castle were found near the main sacrifice altar.

Since then Petra has practically disappeared from the face of the Earth. There were only legends told of countless Nabataean treasures buried deep in the Dead City somewhere in Jordan Mountains and bloodthirsty Bedouins who protected them...

In 1812 Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt introduced Petra to the Western World. In order to get there he had to learn Arabic language and study Koran. He looked like a Muslim; perhaps, this was the reason why Arabs agreed to show him the way to the Rock City. Finding a guide was a challenge — everybody was scared of evil spirits that lived in the Dead City according to Bedouins legends. Initially the guide was taking the explorer to the Tomb of Aaron for a sacrifice. However, as they walked through the narrow corridor and faced the 40-meter high Treasury carved in the rock, Burckhardt realized that they were in the legendary Petra. Admiring magnificent architecture he almost gave himself out in excitement, but his resourcefulness saved him from death from his guide's hand... 

The Rock City. The Carved City...

Those who visited Petra would agree that one day is enough to fall in love with the city and to admire it; but even three days is not enough to walk all its paths, to see all its structures from The Treasury to The Monastery (Ad Deir) carved on the top of the mountain. Nabataeans left over 800 Nabataean carved monuments in Petra, not to mention other periods of its history.

Entrance to Petra goes though the Siq — a dark winding narrow gorge. There is a man-made kilometer-long channel carved in one of the walls, which served as a waterway from the Moses Spring to Petra. Ancient architects created a sophisticate system of dams, cisterns and water conduits to control the water level in the desert climate. There were fountains in city squares, and noble Nabataeans (and Romans after them) enjoyed sunbathing by private pools, ruins of which modern archeologists discovered in Petra... All this luxury was impossible to imagine by looking at lifeless rocks under the blazing Jordan sun.

Little carriages and tourists are rushing by, but I prefer to approach Al Khazneh, The Treasury, slowly. First, the façade of the most elaborate and beautiful building in Petra peaks through the mountain walls, and then — meter by meter — it opens in its full shining glory.

It's worth saying that names of the monuments don't necessarily convey their real purpose. As Nabataeans didn't leave a detailed map of the city, Arabs named locations based on myths, appearances, and guesses. For example, The Treasury is called after the legend about an ancient Pharaoh's bounty that was so large that slowed his army on its way East. They had to hide most of the treasures in the mountains... One can see countless bullet holes marking the surface of the Basin crowning the tower — the local Bedouins believed that this was the place of hidden riches and tried to crack the Basin open hoping for the golden rain...

Behind the columns, there are doors leading to inner quarters. It is believed that the small rooms served as a Tomb for Aretas IV Philopatris, the King of Nabataea. During his rein Petra reached its prime, advancing in architecture among other fields. The look of inner quarters of the Tomb is remarkable: color of sandstone flows from white to maroon as if brushed on by nature itself. The façade of the building (30-meter wide and 43-meter high) is carved in a solid rock and decorated with statues of Nabataean gods and goddesses. The Treasury overlooks the main square focusing on the Siq, the narrow entrance to the city. Nothing is in the view, but the rosy-red mountain walls, so it feels like Petra consists only of the Treasury. Nevertheless, right at the side of the building there is a walkway that suddenly opens up around the corner and becomes a wide road leading to the center of the ancient city. Façades of amazingly beautiful monuments are carved in stone run along both sides of the road.

It is believed that the "Street of Facades" was created during Assyrian period, and that architects of Petra incorporated a lot of Eastern design elements into their work. The road takes us to the huge Amphitheatre carved right in the mountain. It is impossible to count the exact number of seats; so different travel guides speak of three to seven thousand seats altogether. Initially Nabataeans built the Theater for their ritual purposes. Later on Romans enlarged it to accommodate almost half of the city during grand performances.

The purpose of rock structures is still unknown. Most former tombs were later used as quarters and temples. We don't even know if they were tombs in the first place! This is why in my description of Petra I will use common terms that are in use in modern Jordan.

Several roads fan out from the Amphitheater, and each on them leads to its own period. If you turn right you will find yourself in the "Royal Tombs" complex. Go west, and you will see the ruins of Dushara Temple, dedicated to the main male god of Nabataeans. This is probably the only detached massive structure in the city.

The path then goes to the narrow gorge with steep 800-steps long stairs to Ad Deir, The Monastery — the largest structure in Petra.

We had to hire donkeys to go up the gorge. However, an experienced hardy traveler can make the path on foot.

Although the design of Ad Deir is less elaborate and doesn't have statues, comparing to the Treasury, it is much wider. We know for sure that during Byzantine period the building served as a Christian church, thus comes the name. One can climb the rocks to reach the urn on the very top. This is a great spot to admire the scale of Nabataean masonry and to enjoy the grand view of the valley of Moses. The only way out of this place is down...

From a distance, when observed from the Monastery, Royal Tombs look rather small comparing to Jabal Haroun ("Aaron's Mountain") where they are actually curved. The most remote tomb is dated 126 BC. This is the only tomb in Petra that has an actual name: it was built for Sextius Florentinus, the Roman governor of the Arabia province. When walking from this tomb toward the Amphitheater along the Wall of Kings, you will see the Palace Tomb, which façade resembles a Roman temple, the Corinthian Tomb that looks like the Treasury, but severely damaged by time and earthquakes, and also the Silk Tomb, which is relatively small comparing to others. Like a beautiful silk blanket, yellow, red, and grey sandstones cover its walls shining in the sun. The nearby Urn Tomb is as tall as the Treasury and the Monastery. Multi-level arched pedestal, interlacing stairwells, and a lateral colonnade lead to the top of the Urn Tomb, where one can find refuge from the blazing sun in the shade of a large room (17 by 19 meters) right behind the massive entrance...

And here is a bonus advice for those who read the entire article — when in Jordan, spend a day by the Dead Sea, enjoy a sunset in Wadi Rum desert, and relax for a couple of days by the Red Sea. But make sure to spend the rest of your time walking the streets of the Rock City!

Photo and text by Dmitry Moiseenko and Stanislav Sedov . Video by  Stanislav Sedov  and Sergey Shandin . Stitching by Ivan Roslyakov

8 April 2020

Open Gallery

Virtual Travels in 360°

Very beautiful and perfect video !!! Thanks to the whole team for recording and processing.

Karel Hofmann, Czech Republic

You Can Go On A Virtual Tour Of Petra, The Ancient Rose City, From Your Living Room

Walk around the magnificent ‘Rose City’ without having to get up from your chair.

You’ve probably seen the iconic facade of The Treasury in movies, and almost definitely on multiple Instagram feeds in the past few years. This was in large part thanks to the collaboration between Google and Queen Rania of Jordan, where a concerted effort was made not only to boost tourist numbers but to also help preserve the wonder and awe of the stone city for future generations.

View this post on Instagram

And that’s exactly what they’ve done. But now, thanks to being in either quarantine or self-isolation, multiple present-day generations also have the opportunity to digitally explore the ancient city and learn of the history and culture of its once-nomadic Arabian inhabitants, the Nabateans.

Although there is no substitute for seeing Petra in person, the benefit of digitally visiting the city is that it can be done in comfort and peace. Now, there is no need to suffer the stifling desert heat and contribute to the wasting away of its sandstone steps and walls. (Did you know that in the past ten years, some parts of The Treasury have receded by up to 40mm?)

However, the best part of the digital exploration of Petra is that you can go at your own pace, click back and forth as much as you want, and see the curiosities captured by Google’s Street View, along its journey on Queen Rania’s back.

From the Gateway To The Siq, through the mile-long gorge, past The Treasury, and up to The Monastery, viewers take a narrated tour using Google Street View to see the sites in spectacular detail as well as being able to learn of the historic finds and developments made over the years.

👉 Discover the rose-red city here.

And once you’re done exploring Petra, check out the other offerings by Google Maps . For example, explore The Grand Canyon , climb Mt Fuji , go underwater at The Great Barrier Reef , or amaze yourself at Everest Base Camp , among many other digital explorations available.

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

Virtual reality tours

Step inside world-class museums.

You Can Go On A Virtual Tour Of Petra, The Ancient Rose City, From Your Living Room

Walk around the magnificent ‘rose city’ without having to get up from your chair.

You’ve probably seen the iconic facade of The Treasury in movies, and almost definitely on multiple Instagram feeds in the past few years. This was in large part thanks to the collaboration between Google and Queen Rania of Jordan, where a concerted effort was made not only to boost tourist numbers but to also help preserve the wonder and awe of the stone city for future generations.

View this post on Instagram

And that’s exactly what they’ve done. But now, thanks to being in either quarantine or self-isolation, multiple present-day generations also have the opportunity to digitally explore the ancient city and learn of the history and culture of its once-nomadic Arabian inhabitants, the Nabateans.

Although there is no substitute for seeing Petra in person, the benefit of digitally visiting the city is that it can be done in comfort and peace. Now, there is no need to suffer the stifling desert heat and contribute to the wasting away of its sandstone steps and walls. (Did you know that in the past ten years, some parts of The Treasury have receded by up to 40mm?)

However, the best part of the digital exploration of Petra is that you can go at your own pace, click back and forth as much as you want, and see the curiosities captured by Google’s Street View, along its journey on Queen Rania’s back.

From the Gateway To The Siq, through the mile-long gorge, past The Treasury, and up to The Monastery, viewers take a narrated tour using Google Street View to see the sites in spectacular detail as well as being able to learn of the historic finds and developments made over the years.

Discover the rose red city here.

And once you’re done exploring Petra, check out the other offerings by Google Maps . For example, explore The Grand Canyon , climb Mt Fuji , go underwater at The Great Barrier Reef , or amaze yourself at Everest Base Camp , among many other digital explorations available.

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER