Honoring an Enduring Wonder
On July 7, 2007, Petra was officially named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, following a global poll involving over 100 million participants. Each year, this date marks a celebration of the ancient city’s unique significance—not just to Jordan, but to the world.
Petra is more than a historical site; it is a lasting symbol of human creativity, resilience, and architectural mastery.
The Rose-Red Jewel of the Desert
Nestled between rugged mountains in southern Jordan, Petra is often referred to as the “Rose-Red City”, named for the vibrant sandstone cliffs into which it was carved. Founded by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, Petra became a powerful trade center connecting East and West.
Its most iconic structure, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), with its intricate Hellenistic facade, greets visitors at the end of the narrow gorge known as the Siq. Beyond the Treasury lies a sprawling cityscape of tombs, temples, amphitheaters, and rock-carved dwellings that reflect the advanced engineering and urban planning of its time.
Why Petra Earned Its Place
Petra was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders for its exceptional blend of natural beauty and ancient ingenuity. The city stands as a testament to the skill and adaptability of the Nabataeans, who managed to thrive in the harsh desert environment by mastering water collection and carving entire structures into sheer rock faces.
Its selection also highlighted the importance of recognizing cultural heritage sites beyond the Western world—acknowledging Petra as a cornerstone of Middle Eastern history and identity.
A Living Heritage
Today, Petra remains one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world and a major driver of tourism in Jordan. It is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and continues to be a focus for preservation efforts, archaeological research, and sustainable tourism.
Beyond its historical and architectural value, Petra serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding human heritage for future generations.
Eighteen Years as a Wonder
Eighteen years after being named a New Wonder, Petra continues to inspire awe and admiration. Its towering facades, hidden tombs, and silent passageways offer a direct connection to the ancient world—and to the human drive to create beauty that lasts.
July 7 serves as a reminder of Petra’s place not only in history, but in the shared imagination of people around the globe.