description Petra Monastery Overview
The Petra Monastery, or Ad Deir, is a significant Nabataean monument located within the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Carved directly into sandstone cliffs during the first century CE, it represents one of the largest and most impressive rock-cut structures known. Its scale and intricate design make it notable for its architectural achievement. The monastery remains a site of interest for archaeologists, historians, and visitors exploring Jordanian history and Nabataean culture.
help Petra Monastery FAQ
What is the other common name for the Petra Monastery?
The Monastery is known in Arabic as Al-Deir. Despite its modern name, it was likely built as a royal tomb or religious temple, not a functioning Christian monastery.
How do you reach the Monastery in Petra?
Unlike the famous Treasury, which is near the park entrance, the Monastery requires a rigorous hike up roughly 800 rock-cut stairs carved into the cliffside. The ascent takes most visitors about 45 minutes to an hour.
How large is the facade of the Petra Monastery?
The Monastery is one of the largest monuments in Petra, standing at about 47 meters (154 feet) high and 48 meters wide. Its sheer scale makes it significantly larger than the Treasury.
When was the Petra Monastery built?
It was carved directly into the sandstone rock face by the Nabataeans in the mid-first century CE, around 40-70 AD. The Nabataeans were an ancient Arab civilization renowned for their advanced rock-cut architecture and water management.
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