AtlasIslamica

Street of Façades

Just past the Treasury, the path widens into an open section called the Street of Facades. Like a row of town homes, the street is lined with tall, impressive tombs and houses carved into the rock walls

Petra, Jordan

Coordinates: 30.325484, 35.447472

From the Treasury, the walkway broadens into what is known as the Outer Siq.

Adorning the walls of the Outer Siq are several tombs and houses built by the Nabataeans in Assyrian architecture style.

This wider outer passage has become generally referred to as the Street of Facades.

A row of carved rock mansions, some reaching 15 metres high. These tombs were carved by the Nabataeans between the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD.

More than 40 tombs, they are easily accessible, unlike many other. Some are damaged, but still well-maintained. Some of the walls are lined with smaller holes.

The rock-cut facades are the attractive iconic monuments and the caves are wonderful to explore and enjoy the wonders of the creations.

It is hard to imagine people in ancient times could make such an impessive structure and they are easy to access.

Although nothing but the empty caves left, the Street of Facades offers a glimpse into the good old days of the Ancient City.

On your way out, if you take another look at it you might see things you missed on your way in so always worth another check as you leave.

Know This

If you have time, this area is easily accessible for exploring. We saw stray animals, including donkeys, emerge from a few openings, but don’t expect to find treasures. Anything of value was stolen years ago.