The Siq is an interesting geological phenomenon: an earthquake tear that formed a long, colorful path confined by soaring cliffs. It feels like being in a mountain's pocket - and most visitors are so amazed by its beauty, they almost forget what incredible ancient attractions await them further down the path.
Welcome to the SiqThe Siq is the main way to see the Petra Archeological Park; it connects many of the site's most popular structures and is your easiest way in and out. Let's make sure you won't miss anything on the way.
It was created by tectonic forces eons ago, as a geological fault, later to be smoothed by water flowing down from the ridges and the nearby valley, Wadi Musa. In that, it's different than standard canyon channels which are shaped initially by water drainage. The result is a long and constricted path – in several parts, not wider than 3 meters – engulfed by towering cliffs, 90 to 180 meters high. The Siq itself is about 1.2km long.
You can either walk or rideIn ancient times, the Siq was used as a caravan route entering the Lost City of Petra – the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom. Its narrow, serpentine form helped limit access and hold enemies at bay; the geography helped the Nabatean city grow and flourish. Many of Petra's most significant structures were carved into the red cliffs, and the Siq is the path that helps us go between them.
1.2km, and its deepest, darkest part which looks otherworldly, is about 160 meters long. The oath takes about 20 minutes to walk through, but you will want to stop and appreciate the view, take loads of pics, and enjoy the cool breeze.
The Siq itself is gorgeous; you can walk or take a Donkey/Gulf Cart ride that will take you deep between the cliffs until you'll reach the bottom of the gulch and stand in front of the huge, red passage. As the cliffs become as high as skyscrapers, you'll know you've reached the Siq.
The Walls are marvelous!
Pro Tip: Some of the main Petra points of interest will appear behind the curves, and you can use the Siq to frame your pictures.
The Treasury of Petra
This is the most popular spot in the Petra Archaeological Park and probably Jordan. Its gorgeous facade was carved into the rosy cliffs over two millennia ago, to serve as a mausoleum for King Aretas IV in the 1st century AD. Its name was derived from an old Bedouin tale, about a lost treasure hidden within its caverns.
The Petra TreasuryThe lost Nabatean City had many distinguished rulers, all given impressive palace-like burial structures carved into the stone. Don't miss the huge Urn Tomb which offers some fantastic views of the lost city, the colorful Silk Tomb, and the majestic Palace Tomb. These spots are perfect for everybody who loves ancient architecture, archeology, and Indiana Jones movies; if you see levers on the walls - don't pull them!
Left to Right: The Palace Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb, the Silk Tomb (by David Stanley CC BY 2.0)This lovely walkway was a part of the old city and was renovated under Roman occupation in 106 BC. In Nabatean times, this was the main Petra Street, going through markets and a civic courtyard. The street leads to the beautiful Qasr Al-Bint Temple and offers plenty of photo ops along the way.
The Colonnaded Street
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