Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) | Petra

Information

Landmark: Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
City: Petra
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), Petra, Jordan, Asia

Little Petra, known as Siq al-Barid ("The Cold Canyon"), is a Nabataean archaeological site situated north of the main city of Petra. It functioned as a commercial hub and a staging post for camel caravans on the Silk and Incense Routes.

Visual Characteristics

The site is entered through a narrow canyon (siq) approximately 400 meters long. It features rock-cut facades, including temples, triclinia (dining halls), and residential units. Unlike the rose-red sandstone of central Petra, the rock here is a lighter, creamy white and yellow. The "Painted House" within the siq contains rare, surviving Nabataean frescoes depicting grapevines, birds, and mythological figures.

Location & Access Logistics

Situated 8 kilometers north of the main Petra entrance, Little Petra is accessible via a paved road from Wadi Musa. There is a dedicated parking area and a separate visitor center. Entry is typically included in the Petra Jordan Pass or site ticket. The terrain is flat and easily navigable on foot. Shuttle buses and private taxis operate between the main park and this site.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Developed in the 1st century AD, Little Petra was designed to accommodate merchants and their animals outside the main religious and royal center. The narrow canyon walls provided natural cooling and defense. Geologically, it occupies a section of the Ordovician-Cambrian sandstone massif, characterized by high-relief honeycomb weathering.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the two-story Painted House to view the Hellenistic-style ceiling murals. The site contains numerous rock-cut cisterns and water channels. A staircase at the end of the siq leads to a plateau offering views over the Ba'ja region. It serves as the starting point for the "Backdoor" hike to the Monastery (Ad-Deir).

Infrastructure & Amenities

The entrance area features a Bedouin market, local cafes, and restroom facilities. Within the siq, small stalls sell tea and handicrafts. 4G cellular signal is reliable. The site is significantly less crowded than central Petra, providing a more isolated experience.

Best Time to Visit

Morning (08:00–10:00) is optimal for avoiding heat and large tour groups. The narrow canyon remains in shade for much of the day, making it a viable midday option. Photography of the frescoes requires low-light settings; flash is prohibited to preserve the pigments.

Facts & Legends

The name Siq al-Barid refers to the fact that the high, narrow walls prevent sunlight from reaching the canyon floor, keeping temperatures significantly lower than the surrounding desert. It is often described as a "suburb" of Petra specifically for the merchant class.