Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

السيق البارد

A smaller but equally impressive Nabatean site located 7 kilometers north of Petra, featuring carved facades, tombs, and narrow canyon passages. It offers a more intimate experience with fewer crowds and equally remarkable ancient architecture.

Things to do

• Walk through the Siq Canyon — Navigate the narrow, winding sandstone gorge with carved walls and ancient water channels that lead deeper into the site.
• Explore the Treasury Facade — Visit the main carved facade at the canyon's end, featuring intricate Nabatean architectural details and burial chambers.
• Climb to the Upper Terrace — Ascend the natural rock formations above the main structures for panoramic views of the surrounding desert and canyon system.
• Study the Pottery Workshop — Examine the remains and evidence of ancient Nabatean pottery production in the residential areas adjacent to the main structures.
• Photograph the Carved Tombs — Document the smaller but beautifully preserved burial facades carved into the surrounding rock faces throughout the site.
• Follow the Ancient Water System — Trace the sophisticated channels and cisterns that the Nabateans engineered to capture and distribute water in this arid region.

Food to try

• Zarb (Bedouin Roasted Meat) — Lamb or chicken slow-roasted underground with vegetables in a sealed pit, a traditional Bedouin preparation still served in nearby Bedouin camps and local restaurants.
• Hummus with Bedouin Bread — Creamy chickpea puree served with warm flatbread baked in traditional ovens, a staple that fuels visitors exploring the archaeological site.
• Mansaf — A Jordanian national dish of lamb cooked in yogurt sauce with fragrant spices and served over rice, commonly found in family-run eateries in Wadi Musa.
• Mezze Platter — A selection of small dishes including baba ganoush, tabbouleh, olives, and fresh vegetables, perfect for sharing and light energy while exploring.
• Bedouin Tea (Mint or Sage) — Fresh-brewed herbal tea served hot in small glasses, traditionally offered as hospitality by local guides and at rest stops throughout the site.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Sacred Spaces — These are ancient burial sites and religious monuments; maintain quiet respect, avoid touching carved facades, and ask permission before photographing local guides or Bedouin residents.
• Hire a Local Guide — Guides from nearby Bedouin communities offer invaluable historical insights and stories about Nabatean life; their knowledge enhances the experience and supports local livelihoods.
• Dress Modestly and Practically — Wear light, loose-fitting clothing to respect local customs and protect against sun exposure; sturdy walking shoes are essential for navigating rocky terrain and the narrow siq.
• Learn Basic Arabic Greetings — A simple 'Salaam alaikum' (peace be upon you) or 'Shukran' (thank you) builds goodwill with local residents and shows cultural respect.