UNique - 8/10

Nestled in the valley of Wadi Musa, protected by the narrow gorges and high vantage points, is Petra, the capital city of the ancient Nabatean kingdom. The kingdom was at the height of its political and economic significance and prosperity from the 4th century BC and until the Roman conquest in 2nd century AD. Romans continued construction in the city by expanding the amphitheater and adding tombs and temples. Using the sandstone of the valley, the inhabitants of Petra carved out their buildings directly out of the mountains. Due to the unique colour of the rock, the ancient city appears to glow ablaze in the setting sun.

ESsential - 10/10

Voted as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, it is no surprise as Petra’s architecture exemplifies an intricate mixture between the Western Hellenistic and Mesopotamian cultures. The columned pediments of the Treasury and the Monastery provide a striking contrast to the impeccably flat facades of the Royal Tombs. Similar to Hampi and Pompeii, Petra provides a vivid snapshot of the entire civilization from its high religious and ritualistic monuments to the modest cave dwellings of the city dwellers.

COst-effective - 4/10

At the steep price of 55 Jordanian dinars for the two-day pass, Petra is definitely the most expensive Heritage Site I have visited. Having said that, the vastness of the complex really allows you to explore the city at your own pace and create your own itineraries off the beaten pass. For us personally, a two-hour hike from the Monastery to the Little Petra not only provided the much-appreciated respite from the crowds, but also allowed to look at the lesser known, yet more natural attractions of Petra.