DAY 6: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3:
Today was a spectacular day here in Jordan! Again, although it was a cool start (50s), the sun and warmer temps (70s) by noon made it a wonderful day to explore one of the seven wonders of the world!
Petra
The “Treasury” at Petra
Waking up a little earlier for breakfast and check-out, we left the hotel around 7 a.m. for our start of 6+ hours in Petra located in the heart of the Seir Mountains. We are in the land of the Edomites. This ancient “red-rose city” Nabatean city is an amazing site, with the handiwork of God’s incredible creation all around.
We entered the city by walking about a 1/2 mile down the pathway that leads to the top of the Siq (canyon) of Petra. After another mile or so through the Siq, we arrived at the first monument – the famous “Treasury” (formally called “Al-Khazneh”). This well-preserved monumental tomb appears in the movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.” It was most likely the burial chamber or memorial for the Nabatean King Aretas IV. He reigned from 9 BC – 40 AD and is mentioned actually by the Apostle Paul (see 2 Corinthians 11).
Standing in front of the “Treasury”
From the Treasury some in the group went on ahead to tackle two optional hikes to the Monastery Tomb and to the High Place. Others enjoyed walking the same direction and taking in the royal tombs. At every turn there is something incredible to see here in Petra!
Monastery Tomb & High Place
The “Monastery” at Petra
Passing by many more royal tombs and burial chamber we came to one of the largest ancient theaters in Jordan. It dates to the 1st century AD. The theater could hold about 3000 people. It is cut literally into the side of the red sandstone cliff.
At the end of the Roman street begins the climb up to Monastery Tomb . The climb includes about 850 steps. Getting there is quite worth the effort though. Like the Treasury, this Monastery tomb is also quite well preserved and is about the same size. From the viewpoint even further higher above this tomb we could look westward into the Rift Valley and Negev of Israel. After returning down the same pathway, we climbed the back side of the High Place. The walk was equally spectacular, providing a great view of the city below.
Wadi Rum
Jeep rides at Wadi Rum
Leaving Petra in the early afternoon, we boarded the bus and drove south to Wadi Rum. This was an area made famous by Sir Lawrence of Arabia during WWI against the Ottoman Turks. We enjoyed a jeep ride through this unique desert and a great sunset before checking into our “private” Bedouin Village accommodations in the heart of the desert. We enjoyed a unique dinner together followed by a devotional gathering under the full moon desert sky and a walk in the desert. It was fantastic!
Today was a wonderful and unique experience here in Jordan!