The High Place of Sacrifice is one of the most significant historical and cultural sites in the Petra Archaeological Park. This place - sacred for ancient Nabateans and modern Christians alike - has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries and has been a crucial spot for cultural, and spiritual practices for over two millennia.
This site was used for sacrificial rituals and is believed to have been dedicated to the gods of the Nabateans, the ancient Arab tribe who built Petra. Visitors can still see evidence of these practices in the many niches carved into the rock, which once held sacred offerings.
The High Place of Sacrifice (by Dosseman CC BY-SA 4.0)the Nabateans, a polytheistic culture, worshiped many deities, including Dushara - the main god of the tribe - and Al Uzza, the goddess of prosperity and fertility. Archeologists found remains of grain, as well as sheep, goats, and other farm animals, sacrificed in Nabatean rituals.
Additionally, the High Place of Sacrifice is an important pilgrimage site for Christians, who believe that it was used by the Prophet Aaron, brother of Moses, as a place of worship. Many Christian visitors also come to the site to experience the spiritual energy of the place and connect with their faith.
Located on the top of the cliff shadowing the Petra Theater, getting to the High Place of Sacrifice is an adventure in itself - but the journey is just as breathtaking as the destination.
The views definitely worth your efforts (by Michael Gunther CC BY-SA 3.0)The site is accessible through a hike from the main Petra pathway, through Wadi Al-Farasa. This valley is a scenic route that takes visitors through rugged terrain and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The hike to the High Place of Sacrifice takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the pace of the hiker and the time of day.
Tourists hike to the High Place of Sacrifice
It is advisable to start the hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The trail is well-marked, but visitors should wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be rough in places.
The High Place of Sacrifice offers some of the most amazing views in the entire Petra Archeological Park, and since the path isn't for everybody, you'll find fewer tourists around you once you'll get there.
The way to the High Place of Sacrifice is filled with tombs (by Dosseman CC BY-SA 4.0)
The way to the High Place of Sacrifice offers several nice stops: Wadi Al-Farasa, on the way to the place of sacrifice, is a valley filled with tombs carved into its walls. Some of these, like the Soldier Tomb and the Colored Triclinium, have lovely columns and facades. The northwest entrance to the Wadi path is close to some of the park's other popular attractions, which you shouldn't miss:
Qasr Al-Bint Temple
This large, rectangular temple has a square base and stands on a 3-meter-high raised platform with a flight of stairs leading up to the entrance. Qasr Al-Bint has a facade 4 meters wider than the famous Petra Treasury and the Great Temple of Petra - making it a great photography spot. Pro Tip: For a great shot of the temple crouch down in front of the facade and get a view of the temple above the stairs.
Qasr Al-bint Temple
This complex of worship was completed in the early 1st century, by order of Aretas IV, one of the greatest Nabatean kings. The Great Temple of Petra used to be about 20 meters tall, and you can still see how elaborate its halls, temples, and holy groves were In ancient times. Pro Tip: This temple is elevated enough to offer great views of its surroundings, and get a nice picture of the Royal Tombs area to the East.
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