Visit Petra, Jordan
Built by the Nabateans, Petra fell into obscurity about a thousand years ago, while its existence - and location - were kept a closely-guarded secret by the local Bedouin. In 1812, John Louis Burckhardt tricked his way into the site, and almost immediately tourists began to follow.

The Monastery, Petra
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No matter how many times you have seen Petra on television or in film, nothing prepares you for the first time you exit the tiny cleft of the Siq (the 1.2 kilometre narrow canyon leading into the city) to be confronted by the enormous splendour of the Treasury Tomb.
Built by the Nabateans, who grew rich through their control of the frankincense trade routes through Arabia, Petra fell into obscurity about a thousand years ago, while its existence - and location - were kept a closely-guarded secret by the local Bedouin.
Exploring Petra
In 1812, John Louis Burckhardt tricked his way into the site, and almost immediately tourists began to follow - in large numbers. Fortunately, even the largest crowds dissipate in this vast site.
Several days can be spent exploring Petra, although two full days will give you sufficient time to see the main city remains and some of the most interesting outlying sites.
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