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Petra, Jordan

Petra is an ancient archaeological city in southern Jordan, known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Petra is an ancient archaeological city in southern Jordan, known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a symbol of Jordan, and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. The site is a popular destination for Canadian travellers and students of archaeology, ancient history, and Middle Eastern studies.

History

Petra was originally known to its inhabitants as Raqmu. It was an important Nabataean city in antiquity and later became a major archaeological site. The city was rediscovered by European explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812.

Architecture and layout

Petra is famous for its buildings carved directly into sandstone cliffs, earning it the nickname the Rose City due to the pinkish-red colour of the rock. Major features include the Siq, the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs. The site also contains an engineered water management system.

Heritage status

Petra is recognized internationally as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is widely regarded as one of the world’s most significant archaeological landscapes. It is also listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

Tourism and cultural impact

Petra is one of Jordan's most visited tourist attractions. It has appeared in popular culture, including as a filming location for major films.

Key facts

  • Petra is an ancient Nabataean city in southern Jordan known for rock-cut architecture.
  • It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
  • The city is often called the Rose City because of the colour of its sandstone cliffs.
  • Petra is a major cultural symbol of Jordan and a leading tourist destination.
  • The site features the Siq, Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs.
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Canadian context

Petra is a widely recognized global heritage site and a popular destination for Canadian travellers and students of archaeology, ancient history, and Middle Eastern studies.

Frequently asked questions

What is Petra?
Petra is an ancient city and archaeological site in southern Jordan, famous for its rock-cut architecture.
Why is Petra important?
It is a major Nabataean heritage site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of Jordan's best-known landmarks.
Where is Petra located?
Petra is located in Ma'an Governorate in southern Jordan.
Why is Petra called the Rose City?
It is called the Rose City because of the pinkish-red colour of the sandstone cliffs from which it was carved.
Is Petra a Wonder of the World?
Yes. Petra is listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petra
    Supports: Location in southern Jordan; Nabataean origin; Rose City nickname; UNESCO World Heritage Site; New 7 Wonders status; tourism and cultural significance.
  2. The Jordan Times — https://jordantimes.com/news/local/actress-salma-hayek-visits-jordans-petra-wadi-rum
    Supports: Petra as a major Jordanian landmark and tourist destination.
  3. Jordan MW — https://jordanmw.com/indiana-jones-in-petra/
    Supports: Petra as a filming location and its popular-culture visibility.