Royal Tombs | Petra

Information

Landmark: Royal Tombs
City: Petra
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Royal Tombs, Petra, Jordan, Asia

The Royal Tombs are a series of monumental Nabataean burial structures carved into the western face of the Jabal al-Khubtha mountain. They overlook the central valley of Petra and represent the most elaborate funerary architecture in the archaeological park.

Visual Characteristics

The complex consists of four primary facades: the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb. The structures are carved from Cambrian sandstone, featuring a color palette of deep red, ochre, yellow, and white. Architectural elements include massive columns, arched vaults, and classical pediments ranging from 25 to 49 meters in width.

Location & Access Logistics

The tombs are located on the eastern side of the Petra valley, approximately 2.5 to 2.8 kilometers from the Visitor Center. Access requires walking through the Siq and past the Theater. Visitors must ascend a series of rock-cut staircases to reach the elevated plateau where the tombs are situated. No vehicles are permitted on the tomb platforms.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Constructed during the 1st century AD, these tombs are believed to have housed the remains of Nabataean royalty or high-ranking officials. The site displays a fusion of Nabataean, Hellenistic, and Roman architectural styles. Geologically, the facades are carved into the "Petra Sandstone" member, which is subject to high rates of salt weathering and wind erosion.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can conduct a self-guided walking tour along the cliff base to compare the different architectural styles. The Urn Tomb allows interior exploration of a chamber later used as a Byzantine Church. The plateau offers a vantage point for viewing the Colonnaded Street and the Great Temple below.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The area lacks permanent restrooms or food vendors; these are located 500 meters away at the valley floor. The deep interiors of the tombs provide the only available shade. 4G cellular signal is strong throughout the elevated ridge.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time for photography is late afternoon (15:30 to sunset), as the facades face west and capture the direct light. The spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) months provide the most manageable temperatures for the steep ascent.

Facts & Legends

While commonly called "tombs," the presence of large internal halls and outdoor plazas suggests these sites also functioned as commemorative spaces for ritual banquets. Local Bedouin lore once claimed the urn atop the Urn Tomb contained ancient treasures, though it is solid sandstone.