Little Petra

City : Little Petra

Description : Petra has a northern suburb named Siq al-Barid which is 9km of the Wadi Musa town. However, many tourists who visit here refer to it as “Little Petra”. This name has formed from the short, high gorge that is situated here. It is rather different to central Petra as it has a tranquil atmosphere that one cannot experience anywhere other than Jordan. It is recommended that half a day should be spent exploring Little Petra itself and the beautiful surrounding countryside. Shortly before arriving in Little Petra on the road up stands a view that is said to be one of the best views in Jordan. An unspoilt view across the valley with mountains that swarm over to the tiny monuments below. This whole area in Nabatean times was a busy community that is evident throughout. In particular the facade that will strike you just before you reach the Siq entrance. Almost immediately after you enter you will realise why it was named Siq al-Barid. Meaning Cold Siq, there is virtually no sun that reaches the 350m long room making it so cold. You are free to explore the area that you will be encounter first which is an open area where a historic temple once lay. The next second open area has four large triclinia, suggesting that it was once used to be able to dine merchants and traders etc. once they had stopped for a night or two in Petra. The whole of Little Petra also has many different secrets that archaeologists are trying to uncover day in and day out.