PETRA, THE LOST CITY

At the Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa, our luxury hotel in the Mediterranean, we enjoy winding down after an Asian adventure such as visiting the city of Petra.

Petra is known by everyone as one of the most archaeologically popular and famous cities in Jordan. Its name comes from the Greek word meaning “rock”. This city is in the Middle East, three hours south from the capital, Amman.

The city was built 2,000 years ago by a group of Arabic nomads called “Nabataeans”, and is nowadays one of the SEVEN Wonders of the World. In addition, in 1985 Petra was declared Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Its highest splendour was during the time of the Nabataeans, who created an artificial oasis and managed to have, in the middle of the desert, a constant source of water.

The buildings were built in the rock of the cliff and the doors lead to chambers located behind the decorated facades. The most impressive building is the Al Khazneh (or Treasure).

Al Khazneh is almost 12 floors high and its name comes from stories spread by the Beduin about a treasure that was hidden there. However, it really is a tomb or temple that has plenty more buildings on the rock.

Other buildings that must be visited are: Siq, the royal tomb, Al Deir and the Roman ruins. As well as the Byzantine Church which is truly worth a visit, although it is run down due to the many earthquakes and large fires it has been hit by. In spite of this, the remains of its three main areas can still be admired.

Petra is one of the most magical, beautiful and mysterious places found among rocks. We could talk endlessly about his city as it has many things that make it stand out.

This is the most popular and attractive holiday destination in Jordan, which is why a visit to the city must be thoroughly planned ahead in order not to miss out on the main places of interest of the Archaeological Park of Petra. There are self-guided tours as well as more challenging routes which require an authorized tour guide. This is, without a doubt, a magnificent way to discover the lost city on foot.

If you also wish to lose yourself in these Asian wonders, come visit us at the Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa, a magnificent place to be pampered and where to enjoy a truly Asian experience.