Ridge Church
Discover Petra's oldest church atop Jumay'an Hill, offering ancient architecture and unparalleled panoramic views of the ancient city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Ridge Church
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Petra's oldest church atop Jumay'an Hill, offering ancient architecture and unparalleled panoramic views of the ancient city.
"The views from the Ridge Church over the center of Petra and beyond are among the best in Petra."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike up Jumay'an Hill is moderate; comfortable footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities on the way up.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Petra Views
Jumay'an Hill
Breathtaking vistas of Petra's heartland and surrounding desert landscape. A truly unforgettable sight.
Ancient Column Architecture
Nave
Marvel at the still-standing columns that once separated the nave from its aisles, a testament to ancient engineering.
Subterranean Cistern
Under the nave
Discover the large cistern beneath the nave, ingeniously designed to collect rainwater from the roof.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hike to the Top
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike up Jumay'an Hill is moderate; comfortable footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities on the way up.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the Ridge Church are spectacular. Don't forget your camera!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The hike and exploration of the church complex take time. Plan accordingly to fully appreciate the site.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike up Jumay'an Hill is moderate; comfortable footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities on the way up.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the Ridge Church are spectacular. Don't forget your camera!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The hike and exploration of the church complex take time. Plan accordingly to fully appreciate the site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ridge Church for its breathtaking panoramic views of Petra and its historical significance as the oldest church in the city. The moderate hike is considered well worth the effort, offering a rewarding experience for those who make the climb. Some note the limited facilities and the need for good footwear.
"This church is one of the complex comprising the Petra Church, the Blue Church and the Ridge Church.
The Ridge Church (on top of Jumay’an Hill) is a simple building made up of two wings separated from the nave by five columns on each side. It has a large cistern under the nave that was fed by rain from the roof.
This complex of three churches was built over earlier Nabatean buildings and tombs, which remained in use throughout the Roman period before Christianity became dominant in Petra in the fifth century AD, at which time some buildings and tombs were converted to churches.
The views from the Ridge Church over the center of Petra and beyond are among the best in Petra. It takes a moderate but well worth hike to reach the top."
Jesús D
"The columns are still standing."
Jesse Lee
"A must see"
Zoe Ryan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ridge Church is located on Jumay'an Hill within the Petra archaeological park. Access requires a moderate hike from the main Petra site. Follow the signs for the 'Ridge Church' or ask park guides for directions.
There is no direct vehicle access to the Ridge Church. The journey involves a hike. You can hire a donkey or camel for part of the way, but the final ascent is on foot.
The hike is considered moderate, with some uphill sections. It's well-trodden but can be steep in parts. The views along the way are a great reward.
Yes, the Ridge Church is part of the larger Petra archaeological site. It's often visited in conjunction with the Monastery or other central Petra attractions.
Due to the hiking nature and uneven terrain, it may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility issues. It's best to assess your fitness level before attempting the climb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Ridge Church is within the Petra archaeological park. Your general Petra entrance ticket covers access to the Ridge Church.
The Ridge Church follows the general opening hours of the Petra archaeological park. These typically vary by season, so it's advisable to check the official Petra visitor information for current times.
There is no additional fee to climb to the Ridge Church beyond your standard Petra entrance ticket.
While the park has opening hours, visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, is highly recommended for comfort.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors. Avoid using flash inside any enclosed structures if applicable.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Ridge Church is renowned for its historical significance as the oldest church in Petra, its ancient architectural features like columns and a cistern, and its spectacular panoramic views over the Petra basin.
Inside, you can observe the remnants of its past, including the nave, columns that once separated aisles, and the entrance to the large cistern beneath.
Allow at least 30-60 minutes for the hike up and down, plus time to explore the church and soak in the views.
Facilities are limited on the direct path to the Ridge Church. It's best to use restrooms and purchase any necessities before starting your hike from the main Petra visitor center area.
Reading up on Petra's history, particularly the transition from Nabatean to Roman and then Christian periods, will greatly enhance your understanding of the church's context.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are from the vantage points offering sweeping views of Petra. The ancient columns also make for striking architectural shots.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warm glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in archaeological sites like Petra for preservation and safety reasons. Check with park authorities for current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a standard zoom lens is versatile for architectural details. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Many visitors capture the view looking out over Petra, framing the ancient city with the church ruins in the foreground.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the hike a treasure hunt, looking for interesting rock formations or ancient carvings along the way. The historical aspect of the church, being the oldest in Petra, can also be a fascinating story to share with children, sparking their imagination about ancient life.
🚶 Hikers and Adventurers
Combine this hike with other trails in Petra to create a full day of exploration. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top, coupled with the historical discovery, makes this a must-do for active visitors. Remember to start early to avoid the midday sun and enjoy the tranquility of the site.
📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a zoom lens for closer shots of the ruins. Be prepared for varying light conditions and consider a tripod for sharper images in lower light. The journey itself, with its rugged terrain and changing scenery, also presents unique photographic moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Petra's Past
Architecturally, the Ridge Church is characterized by its simple design, featuring two wings separated from the nave by five columns on each side. These columns, still standing, offer a tangible connection to the past and highlight the construction techniques of the era. Beneath the nave lies a large cistern, an ingenious system for collecting rainwater from the roof, crucial for sustaining life in this arid environment. The presence of such sophisticated water management systems underscores the advanced capabilities of the ancient inhabitants.
Visiting the Ridge Church offers more than just a historical lesson; it provides a unique perspective on the evolution of Petra. It's a place where you can physically touch the remnants of different eras, from the Nabatean foundations to the early Christian modifications. The moderate hike to reach it adds to the sense of discovery, making the experience both educational and adventurous.
The Rewarding Hike and Views
As you ascend, the landscape of Petra begins to unfold beneath you. The effort is well worth it, as the summit offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the entire Petra complex. From this vantage point, you can gaze over the central areas of Petra, taking in the vastness and intricate layout of the ancient city. This elevated perspective provides a unique appreciation for the scale and grandeur of Petra that is difficult to grasp from ground level.
Many visitors recommend timing your visit to coincide with the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. During these times, the light casts a warm, soft glow over the landscape, enhancing the visual appeal and making for exceptional photographic opportunities. The cooler temperatures also make the hike more pleasant.
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