Petra

I know, it's been awhile and you've been checking for updates. Well, I'm busy. I have 2 operas to write, as well as finalising things for my master's project. Plus everything else that goes along with being a teacher. Anyway, here are some pictures from Jordan.

The only way to get into the city of Petra is to walk down, down, down a narrow, circuitous route called the Siq. The rock formations are astounding! The Siq was not the regular way for the citizens to enter; it was used for religious ceremonies. Periodically throughout the Siq would be carved niches for candles to light the way.




I have to say, I was somewhat surprised to see how much growing stuff there was in the Siq itself. Trees and flowers were growing up the cliff in some cases.

This is about halfway, I think. See? I really had it all to myself!

So. This is my best picture of the Treasury. I took this the second morning of my stay. I got up early and was in the Siq on the way down by 6:45AM. For most of the way, I had it all to myself. Getting to the Treasury takes awhile, but when you can appreciate it without the hordes of tourists around, it's amazing. Okay, it's amazing with hordes of tourists, too. I also freely admit, as I got close to the end of the Siq, I began to sing the "Indiana Jones" Theme song. How could I help it, I ask you?

This was my first view of the Treasury by daylight - I took this on the first day - followed by a closer picture. Please note the crowds of people on the stairs. The stonework is amazing! It's so well preserved after 2000 years, because it is protected from most of the winds and the rain.

This is from the doorway inside the Treasury. You should all know, there's nothing exciting inside the building. It's a large, empty room. No Knights, no puzzles, nothing. A bit of a let down, actually.

More next time.