There is something about Petra that seems simultaneously both ancient and more advanced than today. This Nabataean settlement’s stunning rock-cut architecture is unimaginable and would be hard to create with today’s technology let alone over two thousand years ago. As we pass through the narrow Siq, we eventually arrive at the famous Treasury façade leading to soaring temples and elaborate royal tombs, a theater, and more burial chambers. After a quick lunch, we go to the Monastery, which is located atop 850 steps built into the sandstone.
Although the tourist economy has turned Petra into something more Disneyland-like with its camel and horseback rides, carriage trips, souvenir stands, and snack shops, the magic of this historic place remains untouched. This day is full of highlights, and these pictures only begin to tell the story.
