One of the most prized Unesco Heritage Sites in the world is Petra, the Ancient City that is partially concealed in the wind-swept landscape of southern Jordan. It was chosen by the general public in 2007 as one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” and it has maintained its allure despite unrest in the surrounding area.
When Petra was rediscovered for the world by Jean Louis Burckhardt in the 19th century, travelling there required disguising oneself, knowing the local language, and earning the trust of the indigenous tribespeople. Both the Bedouin, who still consider the Ancient City to be their home, and the residents of the nearby town of Wadi Musa, whose amenities make a multi-day visit to the Ancient City enjoyable, now welcome visitors. At least two days should be given to Petra in order to do it right given the surrounding Nabataean attractions at so-called Little Petra, desert camping, and numerous trekking opportunities.
