Petra, Jordan
Bronze Price Level Show Details
Price Level Key:
| Safari camps & resorts | City Hotels | |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | $300-500 | |
| Silver | $500-800 | $100-200 |
| Gold | $800-1200 | $200-400 |
| Platinum | $1200+ | $400+ |
| Based on high season rates (non-Christmas) | ||
Mövenpick Nabatean Castle is located across the road from the entrance to Petra. The fitting fort-like architecture of this five-star hotel complements stunning views that provide some natural respite and perspective after a day exploring Petra. There are 90 rooms and suites, each with balconies and terraces that face the striking landscape.
Most visitors to the Mövenpick Resort come to visit Petra, Jordan's most visited attraction. Known as the Rose Red City due to the color of the kingdom’s rock carvings, the city began to prosper as the capital of the Nabataean Empire from the 1st century BC, which grew rich through trade in frankincense, myrrh, and spices. It was later annexed to the Roman Empire and continued to thrive until a large earthquake in 363 AD destroyed much of the city. The earthquake, combined with changes in trade routes, eventually led to the downfall of the city, which was ultimately abandoned.
Petra remained unknown to the western world until 1812 when a Swiss explorer named Johannes Burckhardt set out to ‘rediscover’ Petra. He dressed up as an Arab and convinced his Bedouin guide to take him to the lost city. Soon after, Petra became known in the West as a fascinating and beautiful ancient city worth visiting. On December 6, 1985, it was designated a World Heritage Site.