Eid in Jordan: A Celebration of Culture, Tradition, and Togetherness...
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Petra, also known as the Rose City, is a magical and awe-inspiring destination located in southern Jordan. As a western woman who has integrated into the local culture, I have had the opportunity to live and experience the wonders of Petra first-hand. This ancient city, carved into the rock, is a world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Middle East.
The city dates back over 2,000 years and was once a thriving center of trade and commerce. The Nabataeans, an ancient Arab tribe, established Petra as their capital in the 4th century BC. They were skilled in hydraulic engineering and were able to develop an elaborate water management system that allowed them to control and distribute water throughout the city. The system was so sophisticated that it even allowed for the cultivation of crops in the desert, making Petra a prosperous center of trade. The Nabataeans were able to build the system using their knowledge of the natural terrain, and it included channels, dams, and cisterns.
Unfortunately, the water management system was destroyed by an earthquake in the 8th century, and Petra was abandoned and forgotten for centuries. It was rediscovered by a Swiss explorer in 1812, and since then, it has become one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world. The city is a stunning display of ancient engineering and architecture, and visitors can spend days exploring its many hidden treasures.
Landscape
Petra is nestled in a mountainous region of Jordan, and the landscape is breathtaking. The city is carved into the rock, and the sandstone cliffs give the city its unique and distinctive appearance. The colors of the rock vary from red to pink, depending on the time of day and the angle of the sun. Visitors can also explore the natural beauty of the region on hiking trails, including hidden waterfalls and stunning rock formations.
The approach to Petra begins with a walk through the Siq, a narrow gorge that winds its way through towering sandstone walls. As you make your way through the Siq, the cliffs rise hundreds of feet above you, forming a natural pathway that gradually reveals glimpses of the wonders that lie ahead.
As you emerge from the Siq, you are greeted by the iconic Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, one of Petra’s most famous and elaborate structures. The Treasury is hewn directly into the rock face, displaying intricate carvings and impressive architectural details. It stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Nabatean civilization that once thrived in this region.
Beyond the Treasury, the landscape opens up to reveal a vast expanse of sandstone cliffs, canyons, and rock formations. The mountains surrounding Petra are characterized by striking hues of red, orange, and pink, resulting from the iron oxide present in the rock. This natural color palette, combined with the interplay of light and shadow, creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
Traversing further into Petra, you’ll encounter numerous ancient tombs, temples, and other structures carved directly into the cliffs. The Royal Tombs, the Monastery (Ad-Deir), and the High Place of Sacrifice are just a few examples of the awe-inspiring architectural wonders that dot the landscape.
Beyond the central area of Petra lies the expansive Wadi Araba desert, stretching as far as the eye can see. This vast desert landscape offers a stark contrast to the towering cliffs of Petra, with its seemingly endless stretches of sand and rocky terrain.
Throughout the landscape, you’ll also find remnants of ancient water channels and cisterns, testifying to the ingenious water management systems employed by the Nabateans to support their civilization in this arid environment.
Overall, the landscape of Petra is a harmonious blend of natural wonders and human craftsmanship. It is a place where geological formations, historical ruins, and cultural heritage intertwine to create an awe-inspiring destination that captivates the imagination of visitors from around the world.
Bedouins and their culture
The Bedouins have a rich history in Petra, an ancient city located in modern-day Jordan. The Bedouins are a nomadic Arab people who have inhabited the region for centuries. They have a unique culture characterized by their desert lifestyle and close ties to their ancestral traditions.
Bedouin life in Petra revolved around livestock herding, including goats, sheep, and camels. Their animals provided them with food, milk, and materials for clothing and shelter. The Bedouins were skilled in navigating the harsh desert terrain, and their knowledge of water sources and survival techniques allowed them to thrive in this arid region.
Traditionally, Bedouin society was organized into tribes, with each tribe having its own leader and governance structure. These tribes formed strong bonds based on kinship and shared traditions. Hospitality was highly valued in Bedouin culture, and travelers passing through Petra were often welcomed and offered shelter by the local Bedouins.
The Bedouins of Petra also had a deep connection to their environment. They possessed extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna, as well as the natural resources available in the area. They practiced sustainable living, making use of materials found in the desert for constructing their tents and crafting intricate textiles and jewelry.
With the development of Petra as a tourist destination, some Bedouins have transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to settled communities. However, they continue to preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage through various traditions, such as music, dance, and storytelling. Today, the Bedouin community in Petra plays an important role in sharing their unique way of life and history with visitors from around the world.
Cultural immersion
As a western woman who has integrated into the local culture, I have had the opportunity to experience life in Petra from a unique perspective. I have learned about the customs and traditions of the Bedouins and have been welcomed into their community with open arms. I have also explored the region and its natural beauty, including hiking trails, hidden waterfalls, and stunning rock formations. The combination of these are such a beautiful thing which is why I love sharing these cultural immersion experiences with our guests through multi day adventures!
Bedouins experience Petra in a much different way than tourists. Sure, you can visit the Treasury with 1000 other people. But what about going off the beaten path to a hidden waterfall right inside Petra and having tea with the local bedouins and going for a swim? Traveling with locals gives you a unique advantage to see the secret spots!
Visiting Petra
Petra is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Jordan or the Middle East. The city is a stunning display of ancient engineering and architecture, and visitors can spend days exploring its many hidden treasures. Some of the most popular sites include the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Siq, a narrow gorge that leads into the city. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the region, led by skilled Bedouin guides, or explore the area on their own.
Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Jordan’s most popular attractions. To enter Petra, you’ll need to purchase a ticket at the Visitor Center. The entrance fee varies depending on the duration of your visit, and there are options for single-day or multiple-day passes.
Petra is a vast archaeological site, and exploring it requires a significant amount of walking. The main path through Petra is approximately 2 kilometers long, leading from the entrance to the Treasury. However, there are numerous side trails and hidden treasures to discover, so allow ample time for exploration.
Beyond the Treasury
Don’t limit your visit to just the Treasury. Petra is vast, and there are numerous other fascinating sites to discover, including the Monastery (Ad-Deir), the Royal Tombs, the Great Temple, and the Roman Theater. Consider allocating at least a full day to explore the main highlights and more if possible.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Petra is during the cooler months, from March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, so it’s advisable to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.
What to wear
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking long distances and uneven terrain. Sun protection is essential, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Additionally, carry sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout your visit.
Useful Resources
You can get the Jordan Pass at Jordanpass.jo and this covers the entry fee’s for most of the sites around Jordan. Depending on your nationality it includes the visa to Jordan as well so it makes for a great money saver! There are different packages as well depending how many days you want to visit Petra and it saves you tons on the second and third day if you plan to explore for more than 1 day.
If you need a cheaper option that private transportation/driver then a great option is the Jett Bus. It leaves Amman every day around 6:30am to Petra and leaves Petra every day around 5pm to Amman. It cost 10 JOD each way. Jett bus website.
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In conclusion, Petra is a magical and awe-inspiring destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. The stunning landscape, the hospitality of the Bedouins, and the ancient engineering and architecture all make Petra a must-see destination. As someone who has integrated into the local culture, I highly recommend visiting Petra and experiencing the wonders of this ancient city for yourself.