Petra Church
Discover the Byzantine Petra Church, famed for its stunning mosaic floors and panoramic views, offering a glimpse into ancient religious life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Petra Church
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Byzantine Petra Church, famed for its stunning mosaic floors and panoramic views, offering a glimpse into ancient religious life.
"Remarkably preserved mosaics and great views make this Byzantine church a worthwhile stop in Petra."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Petra's ancient sites. :athletic_shoe:
Seek Shade During Midday
The Petra Church offers some natural shade, making it a good spot for a break from the sun. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intact Mosaic Floors
Main Church Area
Marvel at the remarkably preserved mosaic floors, showcasing intricate motifs and figures from the Byzantine era.
Panoramic Views
Upper Levels
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Colonnaded Street, Great Temple, and Royal Tombs from this elevated vantage point.
Architectural Ruins
Throughout the Site
Explore the remnants of columns, walls, and the overall structure of this ancient place of worship.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Petra Church
Understanding Petra Church's Significance
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Petra's ancient sites. :athletic_shoe:
Seek Shade During Midday
The Petra Church offers some natural shade, making it a good spot for a break from the sun. :sunwithface:
Consider a Guide
A local guide can bring the history of the Petra Church and its mosaics to life. :man_teacher:
Capture the Mosaics
The intricate details of the mosaic floors are a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
Al Dayr (The monastery in Petra) - rare moment with no other tourists in the pic
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven terrain. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Petra's ancient sites. :athletic_shoe:
Seek Shade During Midday
The Petra Church offers some natural shade, making it a good spot for a break from the sun. :sunwithface:
Consider a Guide
A local guide can bring the history of the Petra Church and its mosaics to life. :man_teacher:
Capture the Mosaics
The intricate details of the mosaic floors are a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Petra Church a fascinating stop, particularly appreciating its remarkably preserved mosaic floors and the panoramic views it offers. While some note that beyond the mosaics, much of the structure is in ruins, the protective canopy provides welcome shade and the site offers valuable insight into Petra's Byzantine past.
"A ruined church built around 700AD, with its mosaic floor nearly fully intacted and protected by a roofed enclosure. The mosaic floor has many motifs and saints on it. Thankfully natural disasters didn't completely destroy the church."
Adie Klein
"Right now, this Byzantine-era church is under active restoration and also covered by a huge metal canopy for protection. There are some beautiful mosaics on the floor. The views of the colonnaded street (Great Temple etc) and Royal Tombs from here are panoramic and very good."
Ankur Panchbudhe
"An interesting stop over while in Petra with some well preserved mosaics. There are some informational boards to help you understand the history of the church but a guide I'm sure would also be helpful. The church is also a great place to look over the temples and is a nice viewpoint! If it's a hot day, it's also a great spot for a break and some shade as it's covered."
Arash Khosravi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Petra Church is located within the main Petra archaeological park. After entering Petra, follow the main path towards the Colonnaded Street. The church is situated on elevated ground north of this street. It's a well-marked site within the vast ancient city.
Yes, the Petra Church is accessible from the Visitor Center. It requires walking through the Siq and then along the main path within Petra. Allow ample time for the walk to reach the church.
To reach Petra, you can take a JETT bus from Amman to Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra. Taxis and private transfers are also available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Petra Church is included with your general admission ticket to the Petra archaeological site. You do not need a separate ticket.
The Petra Church follows the general opening hours of the Petra archaeological site. These typically vary by season, so it's best to check the official Petra website for the most current times.
There is no additional fee to enter the Petra Church area beyond your general Petra entrance ticket.
Yes, the Petra Church is generally accessible during the official opening hours of the Petra archaeological site.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the remarkably preserved Byzantine mosaic floors, the architectural ruins of the church structure, and the panoramic views of the surrounding ancient city.
Allocate at least 30-60 minutes to explore the Petra Church, allowing time to admire the mosaics and take in the views. This can be longer if you have a guide.
Yes, there are informational boards at the Petra Church that provide details about its history and significance.
The Petra Church is currently covered by a large metal canopy for protection, offering shade and shelter.
The Petra Church is a significant example of monumental Byzantine architecture, built around 450 AD and later destroyed by fire around 600 AD, losing many of its scrolls.
📸 📸 Photography
The mosaic floors offer incredible detail for close-up shots. The upper levels provide excellent vantage points for wider shots of the church ruins and the surrounding Petra landscape.
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the Petra Church area, including the mosaic floors. Be respectful of other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the details of the mosaics and the grandeur of the ruins without harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to imagine what life was like in this ancient church. While there aren't specific play areas, the sheer scale of the ruins and the stories behind them can spark curiosity. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the archaeological park can be limited.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the story of its construction, the devastating fire, and the ongoing preservation efforts. Understanding its place within the broader timeline of Petra, from Nabataean to Roman and Byzantine rule, enriches the overall experience of the archaeological site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Byzantine Era in Petra
Sadly, the church suffered a major setback around 600 AD when a devastating fire destroyed much of its contents, including valuable scrolls. Despite this destruction, the structure itself endured, and subsequent preservation efforts have protected its remaining features. The ongoing restoration and the protective canopy ensure that this piece of history remains accessible to visitors.
Exploring the Petra Church offers a unique opportunity to connect with a different chapter of Petra's long and complex history, moving beyond the iconic Nabataean facades to understand the city's evolution through different empires and cultures. It provides a crucial context for the broader archaeological site.
Preservation and Restoration Efforts
The mosaic floors are a particular focus of preservation. Their intricate designs and vibrant colors, remarkably intact despite centuries of exposure and the fire, are a key reason for the church's significance. Efforts are made to ensure these delicate artworks are protected from further degradation while still allowing visitors to appreciate their beauty.
While restoration is ongoing, the site remains accessible, allowing visitors to witness these preservation efforts firsthand. This commitment to conservation ensures that the Petra Church will continue to tell its story for generations to come, offering a tangible link to Petra's Byzantine past.
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