1. Petra, Jordan

This ancient city is located in a narrow gorge and was built 

by the Nabataeans more than 2000 years ago.

This historic place became an important stop on the 

caravan route between Africa and Arabia. Petra was largely 

abandoned after a major earthquake in 363 CE. However, 

shepherds used the ruins for shelter for centuries 

afterwards.

Petra is carved into the side of a cliff and most of it is still 

hidden underground. The only entrance is through a 

narrow gorge, called the Siq, which opens onto the city’s 

main square, or piazza. Petra was designated as a 

UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.