What to do in Ma'an

Petra is the mysterious long-lost capital of the Nabatean Kingdom, once a major trading hub in the Middle East. Impressive for its tombs, churches and theaters carved out of its steep canyon walls, the archeological site obtained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1985.

The Petra Visitor Center functions as both the entrance and the museum for the historical complex of Petra. It’s also the booking center for guided tours and horse-and-carriage rides. Get familiar with the history and culture of one of Jordan’s oldest peoples, the Nabateans, and learn how they survived in this harsh natural environment.

The crowning jewel of the Petra Archaeological Park, the Treasury is distinctive for its elaborate design and clear outline in the reddish stone of the valley. It stands 130 feet (40 meters) tall at the end of the impressive Siq gorge. Admire the pillars and pediments making up the restored frontage of this carved structure.

Included in the same UNESCO World Heritage listing, Little Petra is a separate, smaller archeological complex that was once a suburb of the larger city of Petra.

The colossal Great Temple is the biggest freestanding and unearthed structure in the UNESCO-protected ancient city of Petra. This split-level complex rises above the city’s Colonnaded Street and covers an area of 81,375 square feet (7,560 square meters). Climb grand staircases, walk in the shadow of huge columns and admire rock carvings at the Great Temple.

The Siq is a canyon flanked by colorful stone walls in the heart of the Petra archaeological complex. As one of the highlights of the Middle East, this gorgeous 0.7-mile (1.2-kilometer) valley held a special place in the Nabatean culture. Admire the array of spiritual structures carved into the rocks of this otherworldly canyon.