The Treasury

The Treasury, or "Al-Khazneh" in Arabic, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Petra, Jordan. This breathtaking structure is a mausoleum carved into the rose-red cliffs of Petra and is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Nabataean architecture. The Treasury is renowned for its grand facade, which is a mixture of Hellenistic, Egyptian, and Eastern styles, making it a symbol of Petra’s historical and cultural significance. It is the first and most famous sight visitors encounter upon entering Petra, and its dramatic appearance has made it a must-see destination for travelers from around the world.

How to Reach The Treasury, Petra

To reach The Treasury, visitors must first enter Petra through the main entrance at the Petra Visitor Center, located in Wadi Musa. From the Visitor Center, there are two main routes to get to The Treasury: The Siq and the horse-drawn carriages.

The Siq is the natural, narrow passageway that winds through the rose-red rock, leading visitors directly to The Treasury. This route is approximately 1.2 kilometers long, and walking through it is an essential part of the Petra experience. The walk takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on how often you stop to admire the views or take photos. Visitors can choose to either walk through the Siq or take a horse-drawn carriage for an additional fee.

If you're traveling from Amman, the capital city of Jordan, you can reach Petra by car in about 2.5 to 3 hours. Buses and tours also run regularly between Amman and Petra, offering a convenient option for those without private transportation.

Weather at The Treasury, Petra

Petra, including The Treasury, experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, temperatures can rise above 35°C (95°F), making it essential to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the extreme heat. The winter months are cooler, with temperatures ranging between 10°C (50°F) during the day and cooler evenings. It is always a good idea to dress in layers, wear sunscreen, and bring plenty of water when visiting Petra, especially during the hotter months.

The best time to visit The Treasury is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is more moderate and the crowds are generally fewer. These months provide a pleasant experience for walking around Petra and exploring its many historical sites.

Timing and Opening Hours

The Treasury is part of Petra Archaeological Park, and it is accessible during the park's opening hours. The park typically opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, though the hours may vary depending on the time of year. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid large crowds and to enjoy the cool morning temperatures while walking through the Siq to reach The Treasury.

If you're interested in experiencing Petra in a different light, consider visiting during the Petra by Night event. This event takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and visitors are invited to walk through the Siq and see the Treasury lit by over 1,500 candles, creating a magical atmosphere that adds to the allure of this historical monument.

Why Famous for The Treasury, Petra?

The Treasury is famous for its stunning architectural beauty, as well as its historical and cultural significance. Carved into the sandstone cliffs in the 1st century AD by the Nabataeans, the Treasury was originally a mausoleum and a place of burial. It is one of the largest and most elaborate tombs in Petra and is considered one of the best-preserved buildings in the entire archaeological site.

The Treasury’s fame is not only due to its breathtaking design but also because it is the most recognizable symbol of Petra. Its grandeur and the intricate carvings on the facade, which depict Greek, Egyptian, and Eastern influences, showcase the wealth and power of the Nabataean kingdom. It has also appeared in several films, most notably "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," which further solidified its place in popular culture.

The Treasury’s location within the narrow Siq also adds to its mystique, as visitors can’t see the structure until they emerge from the rock corridor, creating a sense of anticipation and awe. The first glimpse of the Treasury, framed by the towering walls of the Siq, is one of the most unforgettable moments in any visit to Petra.

Entry and Visit Details About The Treasury, Petra

To visit The Treasury, you will need to purchase an entry ticket to Petra. As of now, the cost of a single-day ticket is around 50 Jordanian Dinars (approximately $70 USD), though prices may vary depending on the season. Multi-day passes are available for visitors who wish to explore Petra over several days. Tickets can be purchased at the Petra Visitor Center, where you will also find maps, information about guided tours, and various amenities.

Once you enter the park, you will follow the path through the Siq to reach The Treasury. The walk from the Visitor Center to The Treasury takes around 30 minutes, and it is recommended to take your time, enjoy the view, and photograph the surrounding landscape. Many visitors choose to hire a guide to provide historical context and information about the site along the way. Alternatively, audio guides are available for rent at the Visitor Center.

If you're planning to visit the Treasury during the Petra by Night event, tickets must be purchased separately, and the experience usually starts at around 8:30 PM, with the Siq and Treasury beautifully lit by candles.

History and Architecture of The Treasury

The Treasury is believed to have been built during the 1st century AD, during the reign of the Nabataean king Aretas IV. It was originally constructed as a royal tomb, although some theories suggest it may have been a temple or a ceremonial building. The structure is carved into the sandstone cliffs, with its facade measuring 25 meters high and 18 meters wide. The design is an exceptional blend of Nabataean, Greek, Egyptian, and Roman architectural elements, reflecting the cultural diversity of the Nabataean kingdom, which was strategically located at the crossroads of trade routes between the East and the West.

The facade of the Treasury is intricately decorated with columns, sculptures, and reliefs. The upper section features a large urn, which is the focal point of the building's design, while the lower part contains intricate carvings of faces, animals, and mythological figures. The Treasury's combination of Hellenistic and Egyptian motifs demonstrates the Nabataeans' ability to blend local traditions with foreign influences.

The rock-cut nature of the building is also remarkable. The Nabataeans were skilled engineers and artisans, and they used sophisticated techniques to carve out not only the facade but also the interior of the Treasury. While the interior of the building is largely inaccessible, visitors can still admire the stunning architectural details of the exterior from the Siq.

Things to Do at The Treasury, Petra

• Photography: The Treasury is one of the most photographed monuments in Petra, and its dramatic beauty makes for the perfect photo opportunity. Be sure to take plenty of photos as you walk through the Siq and as you reach the Treasury itself.
• Explore the Surroundings: After visiting The Treasury, take time to explore the nearby sites, including the Roman Theater, the Royal Tombs, and the many other rock-cut structures throughout Petra.
• Experience Petra by Night: Don’t miss the chance to experience Petra by Night, when the Siq and Treasury are lit by thousands of candles, creating a mystical and serene atmosphere that is unlike anything you’ll experience during the day.
• Learn the History: Hire a guide or rent an audio guide to gain a deeper understanding of the history, architecture, and significance of the Treasury and its role in the ancient Nabataean kingdom.

Interesting Facts About The Treasury, Petra

• The Treasury is believed to have been built as a royal tomb, but its exact purpose remains a subject of debate among historians.
• It is called "Al-Khazneh" (The Treasury) because, in ancient times, locals believed that treasure was hidden in the urn that adorns the upper part of the facade.
• The Treasury has appeared in popular culture, most notably in the movie "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," where it served as the location of the Holy Grail.
• It is estimated that the Treasury took about five years to carve out, using advanced engineering techniques for its time.

Tips for Visiting The Treasury, Petra

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as Petra is an extensive site, and there is a lot of walking involved.
• Bring plenty of water, especially during the hotter months, as Petra can get very warm.
• Arrive early in the morning to avoid large crowds and to experience the site before the heat sets in.
• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as there is very little shade in Petra.
• Consider hiring a local guide to gain more insights into the history of the site and its significance.
• If you’re visiting Petra by Night, be sure to dress warmly, as it can get chilly in the evening.