Urn Tomb
A monumental Nabataean tomb, later a Byzantine church, carved into sandstone cliffs, famed for its colorful interior and panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Urn Tomb
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental Nabataean tomb, later a Byzantine church, carved into sandstone cliffs, famed for its colorful interior and panoramic views.
"The walls inside are a psychedelic dream of swirling colors, a natural masterpiece."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Prioritize sturdy, comfortable shoes for exploring Petra .
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection is also essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Urn Tomb Facade
Royal Tombs
Majestic sandstone facade, a Nabataean tomb later a Byzantine church. A true architectural marvel.
Psychedelic Interior
Inside Urn Tomb
Walls adorned with swirling, colorful rock formations creating a mesmerizing, almost psychedelic effect.
Panoramic Views
Urn Tomb Terrace
Enjoy breathtaking views overlooking the ancient city of Petra from the tomb's grand colonnaded terrace.
Acoustic Wonder
Inside Urn Tomb
Experience surprisingly clear acoustics, making it a unique spot for sound and reflection .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Navigating Petra's Scale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Prioritize sturdy, comfortable shoes for exploring Petra.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection is also essential.
🎶 Experience the Acoustics
Step inside the Urn Tomb and be amazed by its natural sound amplification. It's a unique sensory experience.
📸 Capture the Colors
The natural bands of color inside the Urn Tomb are stunning. Visit when there are fewer people for the best photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Prioritize sturdy, comfortable shoes for exploring Petra.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection is also essential.
🎶 Experience the Acoustics
Step inside the Urn Tomb and be amazed by its natural sound amplification. It's a unique sensory experience.
📸 Capture the Colors
The natural bands of color inside the Urn Tomb are stunning. Visit when there are fewer people for the best photos.
🚶♀️ Walk from The Monastery
For a rewarding experience, approach the Urn Tomb after descending from The Monastery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Urn Tomb as one of Petra's most impressive Royal Tombs, highlighting its grand facade and the unexpectedly psychedelic, colorful rock formations inside. The views from its terrace are also a significant draw, though some note that the interior itself is bare of artifacts. It's considered a worthwhile climb for its unique visual appeal and historical significance.
"The most impressive of the royal tombs. Inside there is nothing to see, except for the model created by nature in the stone structure. A lot of Bedouins selling souvenirs in his area."
Paul Ciprian
"This is probably the most beautiful of all the tombs in the series of Royal Tombs. From outside, it looks like another tall facade of any other Nabatean tomb in Petra. But as soon as you step inside, it's a spectacular sight - bands of colors running across the walls of the carved mountain rock all around. It feels almost psychedelic inside here if there's no one around to disturb the feeling."
Ankur Panchbudhe
"Fun acoustics inside, nice view of surrounding area, and detailed facade. Worth the short jaunt up!"
Kim Popek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Urn Tomb is located within the Petra Archaeological Park, part of the Royal Tombs complex. You'll need to enter Petra from the Visitor Center and follow the main trail. It's a significant walk, so comfortable shoes are a must. Consider hiring a local guide for insights into the Nabataean and Byzantine history.
While there are options like horse-drawn carriages and donkeys for parts of the main trail, reaching the Urn Tomb typically involves walking. The path is well-trodden, but it is an uphill climb from the main path.
Many visitors find it rewarding to approach the Urn Tomb after visiting The Monastery, as it offers a different perspective as you descend. Alternatively, it's a key stop on the main trail through the Royal Tombs.
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside Petra Archaeological Park. You must park at the Visitor Center and proceed on foot or utilize available internal transport options.
The walk involves some uphill sections, especially to reach the Royal Tombs area where the Urn Tomb is located. It's considered moderately challenging but manageable for most visitors with good footwear.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Urn Tomb is within the Petra Archaeological Park. Your general Petra entrance ticket covers access to all areas, including the Urn Tomb.
Petra typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to check the official Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Entrance fees for Petra vary depending on your length of stay and nationality. For the most up-to-date pricing, consult the official Petra Visitor Center website or local tourism information.
Yes, purchasing Petra tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially secure better rates. Check the official Petra ticketing portal.
Discounts may be available for students, children, and Jordanian nationals. It's advisable to inquire at the Visitor Center or check the official website for eligibility criteria.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the sandstone's colors. The 'golden hour' before sunset is particularly magical.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the Urn Tomb. However, always be respectful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography if it might disturb others or damage any delicate structures (though this is less of a concern for the Urn Tomb itself).
Popular shots include wide-angle views of the facade, close-ups of the intricate rock formations inside, and panoramic shots from the terrace overlooking the valley.
Drone usage is typically restricted within archaeological sites like Petra for preservation and safety reasons. It's best to check with local authorities or the Visitor Center for current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Urn Tomb and other monuments. A zoom lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The Urn Tomb was originally a Nabataean tomb built around 70 AD for King Malichus II. It was later converted into a Byzantine church in the 5th century AD, showcasing Petra's layered history.
The Urn Tomb was constructed by the Nabataeans, an ancient Arab civilization renowned for their engineering and architectural prowess in carving cities from rock.
It exhibits Nabataean architectural elements, characterized by its monumental facade carved directly into the sandstone cliff. Its later use as a church also reflects Byzantine influences.
The name 'Urn Tomb' likely comes from the urn-shaped ornaments found at the top of the facade, though these are weathered and less prominent now.
While all the Royal Tombs are impressive, the Urn Tomb is often highlighted for its grand scale, the unique psychedelic patterns within its interior, and its commanding position overlooking the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a walk and some uphill sections to reach the Royal Tombs. Consider bringing snacks and plenty of water. While the interior is visually interesting, younger children might be more captivated by the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to see camels and donkeys within Petra.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the carving techniques, the scale of the monument, and the unique geological artistry within its walls.Consider hiring a local guide who can provide in-depth historical narratives and point out architectural nuances that might otherwise be missed. The tomb's transformation over centuries is a compelling story of cultural evolution and adaptation.
📸 Photographers
Inside, the natural color bands in the rock create abstract and vibrant compositions that are unique to Petra.Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the tomb and its surroundings. For interior shots, a lens that performs well in lower light conditions is beneficial. Be patient to capture shots without other visitors for a more serene and impactful image.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Nabataean Legacy
The Nabataeans flourished from around the 4th century BCE to the 1st century CE. Their civilization eventually fell under Roman rule, but their architectural legacy, like the Urn Tomb, endured. The tomb itself, believed to have been constructed around 70 AD, showcases their sophisticated carving techniques and artistic sensibilities, with its grand scale and imposing presence.
Exploring sites like the Urn Tomb offers a tangible connection to this lost civilization. The sheer effort and artistry involved in creating these structures from solid rock are awe-inspiring, providing a glimpse into the power and sophistication of the Nabataean kingdom.
From Tomb to Church: A Layered History
This transformation highlights Petra's continued importance as a religious and cultural hub even after the decline of the Nabataean kingdom.This dual identity is fascinating. While the exterior retains its Nabataean grandeur, the interior may have been adapted for Christian worship. The conversion of tombs into churches was not uncommon in the ancient world, symbolizing continuity and adaptation of sacred spaces. It’s a reminder that historical sites often have multiple layers of meaning and use over centuries.
Understanding this transition enriches the visitor experience. It allows you to appreciate not only the original Nabataean vision but also the later Byzantine influence, showcasing Petra's enduring significance across different epochs. The Urn Tomb, therefore, serves as a microcosm of Petra's complex and fascinating historical narrative.
The Mesmerizing Interior of the Urn Tomb
When the tomb is quiet and you're able to absorb the atmosphere, the experience can be deeply profound. The natural artistry of the rock, combined with the stillness of the ancient tomb, creates a unique sensory encounter. It's a stark contrast to the monumental exterior, offering an intimate and almost otherworldly perspective on the stone itself.
This interior beauty is a key reason why the Urn Tomb stands out among Petra's many wonders. It’s a reminder that while the grand facades are impressive, the natural world and the passage of time have also contributed their own breathtaking artistry to this ancient site.
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