Royal Tombs
Majestic mausoleums carved into sandstone cliffs, showcasing Nabatean artistry and blending ancient architectural styles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Royal Tombs
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic mausoleums carved into sandstone cliffs, showcasing Nabatean artistry and blending ancient architectural styles.
"These tombs are a must-visit in Petra, offering insight into Nabatean burial practices and architectural prowess."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing to reach the tombs. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Own Toilet Paper
Restrooms are available but often lack TP. Better safe than sorry! :toilet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Palace Tomb
Western cliff face
Petra's largest and most elaborate tomb, resembling a grand Roman palace facade with multiple levels.
The Silk Tomb
Western cliff face
Marvel at the stunning, naturally banded colors of its sandstone facade, a truly unique sight.
The Urn Tomb
Western cliff face
A grand tomb with a prominent facade, later repurposed as a Byzantine church.
The Corinthian Tomb
Western cliff face
Inspired by the Treasury, this tomb features intricate columns and a richly decorated facade.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Understanding the Royal Tombs' Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing to reach the tombs. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Own Toilet Paper
Restrooms are available but often lack TP. Better safe than sorry! :toilet:
Capture the Colors
The sandstone's natural hues are stunning, especially in the morning and late afternoon light. :camerawithflash:
Check Trail Status
Trails like Al Khubtha can unexpectedly close. Inquire locally to avoid disappointment. :information_desk:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing to reach the tombs. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Own Toilet Paper
Restrooms are available but often lack TP. Better safe than sorry! :toilet:
Capture the Colors
The sandstone's natural hues are stunning, especially in the morning and late afternoon light. :camerawithflash:
Check Trail Status
Trails like Al Khubtha can unexpectedly close. Inquire locally to avoid disappointment. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Royal Tombs as a highlight of Petra, marveling at their monumental scale, intricate Nabatean craftsmanship, and the unique architectural styles that blend ancient influences. The vibrant sandstone colors and the historical significance of these royal mausoleums leave a lasting impression. However, some visitors have experienced frustration with unexpected trail closures and the variable condition of on-site facilities.
"The Royal Tombs are four prominent grand tombs carved into the western side of Khubtha Mountain, overlooking the city center. Their elaborate architecture and prominent locations indicate that they held families from Petra's upper social strata, or royalty. From right to left, they are: The Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb. Each tomb has its own unique architectural style and historical significance. A must visit place in Petra.
The Urn Tomb derives its name from the funerary urn located on the pediment at the top of the façade.
Set back in a deep recess in the Khubtha slope, the Silk Tomb is the smallest of the four and has drawn acclaim for the brilliant banded coloring of its sandstone façade.
Petra's Corinthian Tomb, named after Greek Corinthian-style capitals, is patterned after the Khazna.
The Palace Tomb, the largest and most elaborate, is believed to reflect a Hellenistic or Roman-period palace facade. The Nabataeans were deeply concerned about their dead. They buried them in monumental tombs located in prominent positions around the city, where they dominate their surroundings and command views from afar."
Shahtaj Noor
"Everything is fascinating and beautiful in Petra and the Royal tombs should not be missed!
These are a series of monumental rock-cut tombs that showcase some of the finest architecture and craftsmanship of the ancient Nabatean civilization. Located along the eastern cliffs, these tombs are believed to have been built for Nabatean royalty and high-ranking individuals, with elaborate facades that blend Nabatean, Hellenistic, and Roman design elements.
The most famous of these tombs include:
1. The Urn Tomb: Known for its grand entrance and large interior hall, it was later converted into a Byzantine church.
2. The Silk Tomb: Named for its striking, colorful swirls in the sandstone, which create a vibrant natural pattern.
3. The Corinthian Tomb: Influenced by the Treasury’s design, it has elaborate columns and a richly decorated facade.
4. The Palace Tomb: Resembling a Roman palace, this multi-level tomb has numerous chambers and was likely used for multiple burials.
These tombs reflect the wealth and artistry of Petra’s elite, with each facade uniquely designed and positioned to catch the light beautifully at different times of day. They remain a highlight of any visit to Petra, offering insight into Nabatean burial practices and architectural prowess."
Nadia Mustafa
"My favorite part of the Petra archeological park."
Thomas Bielecki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Tombs are located within the Petra Archaeological Park, accessible after walking through the Siq. They are carved into the western side of Khubtha Mountain, overlooking the city center. You can reach them by following the main path from the Visitor Center.
While there are no direct transport services to the Royal Tombs themselves, you can hire donkeys or camels for parts of the journey within Petra, though walking is the most common way to explore.
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside the Petra Archaeological Park. You must park outside the entrance and walk or use local transport options within the park.
Most visitors approach the Royal Tombs after walking through the Siq and past the Treasury. They are a prominent feature on the eastern cliffs, easily visible as you explore the main trail.
The Royal Tombs are situated along the main path of Petra. The Al Khubtha trail offers an elevated view of the tombs, but access to this trail can sometimes be restricted.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a ticket to the Petra Archaeological Park is required to access the Royal Tombs. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center.
The Royal Tombs are accessible during the general opening hours of the Petra Archaeological Park, which typically vary by season but are usually from early morning until sunset.
Ticket prices for Petra vary depending on whether you are visiting for one day, two days, or three days, and if you are staying overnight in Jordan. Check the official Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) website for current pricing.
Yes, it is often possible to purchase Petra tickets online in advance, which can save time at the Visitor Center.
The Jordan Pass often includes entry to Petra and many other historical sites in Jordan, making it a cost-effective option for tourists.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
For the best experience, visit the Royal Tombs in the early morning to avoid crowds and heat, or in the late afternoon for beautiful golden hour lighting.
While you can see the facades from a distance relatively quickly, exploring them up close and appreciating their details can take 1-2 hours, depending on your interest.
Yes, there are restrooms available near the Royal Tombs, though their condition can vary. It's advisable to bring your own toilet paper.
You can enter the main chambers of most of the Royal Tombs. However, access may be restricted in certain areas for preservation purposes.
The Al Khubtha trail offers a hike up to a viewpoint directly overlooking the Royal Tombs, providing a unique perspective. However, this trail can sometimes be closed without notice.
📸 📸 Photography
The main path in front of the tombs offers classic frontal shots. For a different perspective, consider the Al Khubtha trail for an elevated view, though check its accessibility.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the most dramatic lighting, highlighting the sandstone colors and architectural details.
Drone usage is generally restricted in archaeological sites like Petra for preservation and security reasons. It's best to check the latest regulations.
Experiment with different angles from the main path. Looking up can emphasize their scale, while a slightly wider shot captures their integration into the cliff face.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sandstone colors and reduce glare. Adjust your ISO and aperture based on the available light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main paths are generally manageable, some of the climbs to get closer to certain tomb entrances might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Consider the timing of your visit to avoid the midday heat. The restrooms are available but can be basic, so plan accordingly.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. If you're interested in learning more, consider hiring a local guide at the Visitor Center for deeper insights into the history and symbolism of each tomb.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different focal lengths. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Palace Tomb, while a telephoto can highlight intricate details on other facades. Don't forget to look for unique textures and patterns, especially in the Silk Tomb. Consider the Al Khubtha trail for an elevated perspective, but always check if it's open.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Four Royal Tombs of Petra
The tombs are, from right to left: The Urn Tomb, The Silk Tomb, The Corinthian Tomb, and The Palace Tomb. Each possesses a unique architectural style, blending Nabatean traditions with Hellenistic and Roman influences. The Urn Tomb, named for the funerary urn on its pediment, was later converted into a Byzantine church. The Silk Tomb is renowned for the vibrant, swirling colors of its sandstone facade, while the Corinthian Tomb draws inspiration from the Treasury's design. The Palace Tomb, the largest and most elaborate, mimics a Roman palace facade, suggesting a multi-level burial structure.
Visiting the Royal Tombs offers a profound glimpse into Nabatean burial practices and their sophisticated understanding of architecture and aesthetics. The intricate details, the sheer scale of the carvings, and the way they are integrated into the natural rock formations are awe-inspiring. They remain a highlight for any visitor to Petra, providing a tangible connection to the ancient world.
Architectural Fusion and Nabatean Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship involved in carving these massive structures directly from the sandstone cliffs is extraordinary. Without modern tools, the Nabateans meticulously sculpted intricate details, columns, pediments, and interior chambers. The natural colors of the sandstone, especially evident in the Silk Tomb, were also celebrated and incorporated into the aesthetic appeal of these monumental tombs.
These tombs were not merely burial sites but also statements of power, wealth, and religious belief. Their scale and elaborate decoration underscore the importance the Nabateans placed on honoring their deceased rulers and elite, ensuring their legacy would endure through these enduring rock-cut monuments.
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