Lion Monument Wadi Farasa
A secluded Nabatean tomb with unique lion carvings and a keyhole doorway, offering a peaceful escape on the path to Petra's Monastery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer people
Lion Monument Wadi Farasa
Best Time
Golden light, fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Nabatean tomb with unique lion carvings and a keyhole doorway, offering a peaceful escape on the path to Petra's Monastery.
"A worthy side-trip along the way with a moment of solitude is the ancient Lion Triclinium."
🎯 Short Detour, Big Reward
A quick 5-10 minute detour off the main path to the Monastery offers a peaceful escape.
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
The path involves scrambling over rocks; wear good walking shoes for a safe climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lion Triclinium Facade
Side canyon on the way to the Monastery
An ancient sandstone chamber with eroded lion carvings and a unique keyhole-shaped doorway.
Tranquil Contemplation Spot
Inside the Triclinium
Find a moment of quiet reflection away from the crowds, listening to the wind in the canyon.
Nabatean Deities Carvings
Near the doorway
Discover ancient carvings, possibly representing Nabatean deities like Dushara.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Monastery Crowds
Navigating the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Short Detour, Big Reward
A quick 5-10 minute detour off the main path to the Monastery offers a peaceful escape.
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
The path involves scrambling over rocks; wear good walking shoes for a safe climb.
🤫 Embrace the Solitude
Often you'll find yourself alone here, perfect for quiet contemplation.
📸 Unique Photo Ops
Capture the eroded details and the striking keyhole-shaped doorway.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Short Detour, Big Reward
A quick 5-10 minute detour off the main path to the Monastery offers a peaceful escape.
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
The path involves scrambling over rocks; wear good walking shoes for a safe climb.
🤫 Embrace the Solitude
Often you'll find yourself alone here, perfect for quiet contemplation.
📸 Unique Photo Ops
Capture the eroded details and the striking keyhole-shaped doorway.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Lion Monument a worthwhile, peaceful escape from the main Petra crowds, especially on the way to the Monastery. While not as spectacular as other sites, its secluded nature and unique carvings offer a moment of quiet contemplation and a sense of discovery. Some note the climb requires careful footing.
"Not particularly spectacular sight after all the other ones in Petra but still a nice escape from the crowd while on the busy path to and from the Monastery, just a very short detour. It is possible to go into the tomb but the climb to and up the stairs is not as straightforward as it seems."
Siewling Lay
"A worthy side-trip along the way with a moment of solitude is the ancient Lion Triclinium.
Diverting 10 minutes off the beaten track through a challenging hike in a canyon brings you to this sandstone chamber, which once held amazingly intricate sculpture, but many of the details have been lost to the ages.
Gaze out the doorway at the desert. Listen to the wind whistling through the canyon.
The Triclinium is an ideal perch for quiet and peaceful contemplation away from selfie sticks before continuing the ascent to the Monastery.
This evocative eddy tames the tourist tide for memorable isolation."
Jonathan
"Located on the way up to the Monastery, the façade of the Lion Triclinium is decorated with a Doric frieze with the head of Medusa at each end. Above the doorway there is a circular window now eroded so that door and window join forming a keyhole, and over the pediment there is an urn. In the interior, there are three benches (hence the name triclinium).
The Lion Triclinium dates back to the first century AD, and its name is due to the two lions carved at the base of the façade. The lions are symbols of the vegetation goddess Atargatis. A baetyl in a niche is carved to the left of the doorway possibly representing the main Nabatean male deity Dushara (see review image).
If you are hiking up to the Monastery, a small detour to this triclinium is well worth it. You will suddenly be away from the marching crowds and quite possibly find yourself all alone marveling at this secluded marvel within Petra."
Jesús D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lion Monument, also known as the Lion Triclinium, is located on the main trail leading to the Monastery in Petra. It's a short detour off the beaten path, typically found by following signs. You'll need to navigate some rocky terrain and a short climb to reach it.
While it's a detour, signs usually point the way. It's situated in a narrow side canyon, so keep an eye out for the entrance. The climb involves scrambling over rocks.
The best approach is to be on your way to or from the Monastery. It's a relatively short diversion from the main trail, making it an easy add-on to your Petra itinerary.
No, the Lion Monument is within the Petra Archaeological Park, so your standard Petra entrance ticket covers access.
The detour itself, including the short climb and time to admire the monument, usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Lion Monument is included with your general Petra entrance ticket. It's part of the main archaeological site.
The Lion Monument is accessible during the standard operating hours of Petra Archaeological Park, which typically run from early morning until sunset.
While you can enter the tomb area, the climb and access are part of the natural site. There isn't a separate fee for entering the tomb itself, but be cautious with the climb.
Yes, it's highly recommended to purchase your Petra entrance tickets online in advance to save time and potentially secure better rates.
Your Petra entrance ticket grants access to the entire archaeological park, including the Siq, Treasury, Monastery, and various other monuments like the Lion Monument.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Lion Monument is recognized for its ancient facade featuring eroded lion carvings at the base and a unique keyhole-shaped doorway. It's also a peaceful spot away from the main tourist paths.
Inside, you'll find three benches, giving it the name 'Triclinium.' It was likely used for ancient gatherings or rituals.
The climb involves scrambling over rocks in a narrow canyon. It's not a strenuous hike but requires sturdy footwear and a bit of agility.
Restroom facilities are generally located along the main trail towards the Monastery, but not directly at the Lion Monument itself. Plan accordingly.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, casting a warm glow on the sandstone. It also tends to be less crowded then.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique keyhole-shaped doorway, the eroded lion carvings at the base, and the panoramic views from the entrance. The surrounding canyon also offers dramatic shots.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting that enhances the sandstone colors and textures.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the facade and the canyon setting. A standard zoom lens will also work well for general shots.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the site and avoid using flash inside any enclosed tomb areas if you choose to enter.
Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially on weekdays, increases your chances of having the monument to yourself for unobstructed photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical significance might be lost on younger ones, the unique carvings and the feeling of discovering a 'hidden' spot can be captivating. It provides a good opportunity for a brief rest and a moment of quiet contemplation before continuing the trek to the Monastery. Pack plenty of water, as there are no facilities directly at the monument.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Take the time to sit within the triclinium, listen to the wind whistling through the canyon, and absorb the ancient atmosphere without the usual tourist buzz. It's an ideal spot to recharge and appreciate the historical and spiritual significance of the site in a personal way. The short, adventurous climb adds to the feeling of having earned this peaceful escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Symbolism of the Lion Triclinium
Within a niche to the left of the doorway, a baetyl (a sacred stone) is carved, possibly representing the primary Nabatean male deity, Dushara. This combination of symbols highlights the syncretic nature of Nabatean religion, blending local deities with influences from surrounding cultures. The facade also features a Doric frieze with Medusa heads at each end, and a circular window that has eroded to join the doorway, creating a distinctive keyhole shape.
Visiting the Lion Triclinium offers a glimpse into the spiritual and social life of the Nabateans, providing context beyond the more famous structures in Petra. Its secluded location adds to its mystique, allowing for a more intimate connection with the ancient past.
Navigating the Hike and Access
While the climb isn't excessively difficult, it's not a paved walkway. The effort is rewarded with a sense of discovery as you emerge into the secluded area where the monument is carved into the rock face. The short detour is well worth the effort for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience within Petra.
It's advisable to tackle this section with a moderate level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The natural landscape adds to the authenticity of the experience, making it feel like a true exploration rather than just another tourist stop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit