Petra treasury jordan

The Treasury of Petra, Al-Khazneh, is a rock-cut monument from the 1st century BC in southern Jordan, famous for its Nabatean facade and movie appearances.

About this subject

Al-Khazneh, known as the Treasury of Petra, is one of the most iconic structures of the ancient Nabatean city of Petra in southern Jordan. Carved directly into a sandstone cliff face, the monument dates back to approximately the 1st century BC, during the height of the Nabatean kingdom. It is believed to have been built as a royal tomb, though its popular name, Treasury, derives from Bedouin legends about a hidden treasure at the top of the facade. The facade measures about 40 meters high and 25 meters wide, displaying a blend of Greco-Roman and Egyptian architectural styles, including Corinthian columns, a broken pediment, and figures of deities.

The monument gained worldwide fame as the backdrop for films such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), where it appears as the entrance to the Holy Grail. However, the interior of the Treasury is relatively simple: a single square chamber about 12 meters on each side, with no extensive inscriptions or decorations, suggesting it was never completed or that its original funerary purpose was altered over time. The facade, in contrast, is richly adorned with reliefs including eagles, winged figures, and broken vases, symbolizing immortality.

Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2007). Access to the Treasury is through the Siq, a narrow 1.2 km gorge, which creates a dramatic reveal of the facade. Petra flourished as a trade center for spices and silk but declined after earthquakes and changes in trade routes in the 7th century AD, eventually being abandoned and rediscovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812. Today, the Treasury is one of the most visited archaeological sites in the Middle East, drawing tourists from around the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Al-Khazneh mean in Arabic?

Al-Khazneh means 'The Treasury' in Arabic. The name comes from local legends claiming that a treasure was hidden in the stone urn at the top of the facade.

Was the Treasury of Petra actually used as a tomb?

Yes, it is believed to have been built as a royal tomb for a Nabatean king, likely Aretas IV. The interior chamber is large enough for a burial, though no remains have been found.

How can one visit the Treasury of Petra today?

The Treasury is located within the Petra Archaeological Park in Jordan. Visitors enter through the Siq and reach the monument on foot or by horse carriage. An entrance ticket to the park is required, costing between 50 and 90 Jordanian dinars for a day pass.