The Theatre | Petra

Information

Landmark: The Theatre
City: Petra
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

The Theatre, Petra, Jordan, Asia

The Theatre is a massive rock-cut auditorium located at the base of the High Place of Sacrifice mountain within the Petra Archaeological Park. It is situated along the main path of the Outer Siq, positioned between the Street of Facades and the Royal Tombs.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is carved directly into the reddish-pink sandstone mountainside, featuring a semi-circular cavea (seating area) consisting of 45 rows of seats. It spans a diameter of approximately 95 meters and originally accommodated an estimated 8,500 spectators. The architectural style integrates Nabataean rock-cutting techniques with Greco-Roman stylistic elements, including a reconstructed scaenae frons (backstage wall) made of sandstone blocks.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located approximately 2.2 kilometers from the Petra Visitor Center. Access is via the Siq and the Street of Facades on foot or by electric cart. The nearest town is Wadi Musa, which serves as the primary hub for transportation; local taxis and buses connect Wadi Musa to the Desert Highway leading to Aqaba or Amman.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Constructed by the Nabataeans in the 1st century AD, the theatre was originally carved into an area containing earlier tombs, some of which were bisected during excavation. After the Roman annexation of Petra in 106 AD, the structure was enlarged and modified. It was severely damaged by an earthquake in 363 AD, leading to its eventual decline and partial burial under silt.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view the transition from Nabataean funerary architecture to Roman civic engineering. Climbing onto the seating rows is generally restricted to prevent erosion, but the orchestra floor and the lower tiers remain accessible for viewing. Photography from the main path provides a comprehensive view of the tiered seating against the backdrop of the Royal Tombs.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The area is entirely open to the elements with no overhead shade. Basic amenities, including a small snack stall and primitive restroom facilities, are located within 150 meters. Cell phone signal is limited to 3G or 4G depending on the proximity to the canyon walls.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the mid-morning (09:00–11:00) when the sun illuminates the interior of the theater bowl. Spring and autumn are the most suitable seasons for visiting to avoid the extreme heat of the Jordanian summer.

Facts & Legends

The Theatre is unique as the only one in the world carved entirely into solid rock rather than built with masonry. During its construction, the Nabataeans carved through several older tomb chambers, leaving visible "windows" in the back walls of the seating area that were once private burial rooms.