Jordan is the country home to Petra, the ancient city famous for its rose-colored rock-cut buildings.
Petra was established as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, whose people controlled important trade routes through the deserts of present-day Jordan. The city’s position between Arabia, the Levant, and the Mediterranean helped it prosper from caravan commerce.
The most recognizable structure is Al-Khazneh, often called the Treasury. Despite its name, archaeologists believe it was probably a royal tomb or ceremonial monument rather than a treasure store. Petra also contains tombs, temples, colonnaded streets, and a theater.
The city was partly abandoned after changing trade routes and damaging earthquakes. It became widely known outside the region after its rediscovery by European travelers in the 19th century. Petra joined the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985 and is often called the “Rose City” because of the color of its sandstone.