Discover the Majestic Treasury of Petra
Explore the Treasury of Petra, an iconic historical landmark carved into rose-red cliffs, showcasing the beauty of the ancient Nabatean civilization.
A brief summary to The Treasury
- 8FC2+VM5, Wadi Musa, JO
- +96265543600
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
The Treasury, known as Al-Khazneh, stands as the crown jewel of Petra, Jordan's ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carved into the striking sandstone cliffs, this architectural marvel is not just a visual feast but also steeped in rich history and legend. As you journey through the winding Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to the Treasury, you'll feel the excitement build, culminating in the breathtaking reveal of this magnificent façade. The intricate details of the carvings, reflecting Greco-Roman influences, tell stories of a bygone era where trade and culture flourished. Visitors are often enchanted by the vibrant hues of the sandstone that change throughout the day, offering a spectacular display of colors, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The Treasury served as a mausoleum and has been the subject of many myths, including tales of hidden treasure. Although it is undoubtedly one of the most photographed sites in the world, standing before the Treasury in person evokes a sense of wonder that is genuinely unmatched. Exploring the surrounding archaeological wonders of Petra, including the Royal Tombs and the Monastery, adds to the allure of this historic site. With guided tours available, you can delve deeper into the stories and significance of the Treasury and its surroundings. The site is open daily, allowing ample opportunity for tourists to soak in its beauty and history. Don't miss the chance to experience this breathtaking landmark, where every corner reveals a piece of the past, inviting you to imagine the lives of those who once roamed this ancient city.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Don't forget to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your experience with historical insights and stories.
- Plan to spend several hours exploring Petra to fully appreciate its beauty and history.
- Check the weather ahead of your visit; Petra can be extremely hot in summer months.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from any location within Burial Mounds, head towards the main road that connects to Wadi Musa. Follow signs for 'Petra' or 'The Treasury'. The exact coordinates for The Treasury are approximately 30.3221392 latitude and 35.4517457 longitude. As you approach Wadi Musa, you will enter a narrow street leading directly to the Petra Visitor Center. From there, you can park your car in the designated parking areas (note that parking may incur a small fee, typically around 5 JOD). After parking, follow the signs towards Petra, which is a short walk to the entrance where you will buy tickets.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can catch a bus from major cities like Amman or Aqaba to Wadi Musa. Upon arrival at the Wadi Musa bus station, you can either walk to the Petra Visitor Center (approximately 20 minutes on foot), or take a local taxi (which should cost around 1-3 JOD). Once you reach the Visitor Center, follow the signs to The Treasury, which is located inside the Petra archaeological site. Note that entrance fees to Petra are required (around 50 JOD for a day ticket).
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Walking
If you are already within walking distance in Wadi Musa, head towards the Petra Visitor Center. The walk is straightforward; just ask locals for directions to the Center if needed. Once you reach the Center, you'll need to purchase your tickets to enter Petra. After entering, follow the main path leading through the Siq (a narrow gorge) which will lead you to The Treasury. The walk through the Siq takes about 30 minutes, and it is highly recommended as it offers stunning views.