The Majestic Monastery of Petra: A Journey Through History
Explore The Monastery in Petra, Jordan - a breathtaking historical landmark showcasing ancient Nabatean architecture and culture.
A brief summary to The Monastery
- 8CQJ+79X, Uum Sayhoun, JO
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Nestled within the breathtaking cliffs of Petra, The Monastery stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Nabateans, who carved this magnificent structure from solid rock over 2,000 years ago. Known as 'Ad Deir,' it is one of the largest monuments in Petra, featuring a grand façade that rises nearly 50 meters high. The intricate details of its design showcase the incredible artistry of ancient stone masons and the cultural significance of this historical landmark. To reach The Monastery, visitors must embark on a scenic hike up a winding path that meanders through the stunning desert landscape, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The journey is rewarding, as the sight of The Monastery emerging from the rock face is nothing short of breathtaking. Upon arrival, tourists can explore the interior, which is equally impressive, featuring a vast open space that once served various ceremonial purposes. The Monastery is not just a site of architectural wonder; it holds great historical and cultural significance. It is believed to have been a temple dedicated to a Nabatean deity, and later, it became a Byzantine church. Today, it stands as a symbol of the rich history of Petra and the extraordinary civilization that once thrived in this region. The Monastery is a must-see for anyone visiting Jordan, offering a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the artistry and dedication of those who came before us. Plan your visit wisely, as The Monastery is best experienced during the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon. The golden hues of the sun bathing the rock face create a mystical atmosphere that enhances the allure of this ancient site.
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and stunning sunrise views.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trek up to The Monastery; the path can be steep and rocky.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available near the site.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your understanding of the history and significance of The Monastery.
- Visit later in the day for fewer crowds and to capture stunning photographs with the golden light.
Getting There
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Walking
From the entrance of Petra, head straight along the main path towards the Siq, which is the narrow gorge leading into Petra. Once you exit the Siq, continue walking towards the Treasury, which will be on your right. After taking some time to enjoy the view of the Treasury, continue up the path that leads towards the High Place of Sacrifice. This path will become steeper as you ascend. Follow the signs for the Monastery (Al-Deir). After approximately 800 steps, you will reach a plateau with a stunning view. Continue straight on this path, and you will eventually see The Monastery in front of you. The total walk from the Treasury to The Monastery takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Horse
At the Petra visitor center, you can rent a horse to take you part of the way towards The Monastery. The horse will take you along the main path towards the Siq. Once you reach the end of the horse ride, dismount and continue on foot. From this point, you will need to walk uphill, following the signs to The Monastery. Expect to climb approximately 800 steps after the horse ride. It is advisable to have a guide who can assist you with the best route and provide insights along the way.
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Donkey
Similar to the horse ride, you can hire a donkey at the Petra entrance that will take you part of the way. The donkey ride will take you along the main trails leading to the Monastery. Once you are at the designated drop-off point, you will need to walk the remainder of the distance. This includes climbing about 800 steps to reach The Monastery. Again, having a guide is recommended to navigate the path and make the experience more enjoyable.
