Top UNESCO Sites Windstar Cruises Visits in the Middle East

Carved into the rose-red cliffs of southern Jordan, Petra is a mesmerizing ancient Nabatean city that dates to the 6th century B.C. Wander through the narrow Siq, a sandstone canyon that leads to the heart of Petra, and after a short walk you’ll catch your first glimpse of Al Khazneh (the Treasury), which stands 121 feet tall. Beyond Al Khazneh, you are surrounded by hundreds of Petra’s structures, temples, royal tombs, houses, burial chambers, banquet halls, staircases, markets and gates. The city’s ingenious water management systems, including dams, cisterns, and channels, reflect the resourcefulness of its inhabitants. Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985; UNESCO describes Petra as “one of the most precious cultural properties of man’s cultural heritage.” Petra still forms part of the domain of the Bedouin people, and you will see them with their horses and camels along your journey. The nine-hour “Aqaba, Petra Day Tour” is offered on Wonders of Arabia, Red Sea Revelries Via the Suez Canal,