Petra is the ancient city carved into rose-colored rock in Jordan.
Petra was established by the Nabataeans, an Arab people who controlled important trade routes in the region. Its location in a basin surrounded by mountains helped the city prosper while also providing natural protection.
The city is best known for the Treasury, a monumental façade carved into sandstone. Other major features include the Monastery, rock-cut tombs, temples, colonnaded streets, and an elaborate water-management system that supported urban life in a dry environment.
Petra was annexed by the Roman Empire in 106 CE and later declined as trade patterns changed and earthquakes damaged the city. Western audiences became more familiar with it after European exploration in the nineteenth century, although local communities had long known the site.