The Monastery

Ad Dier is one of Petra's most celebrated historical monuments and is also known as 'The monastery'. It is situated in the northwest part of the city. This monastery was sculptured from rosy-red sandstone around 2,000 years ago by the Nabateans. It is a marvellous example of classical Nabataean architecture.

The structure is a fusion of Hellenistic and Mesopotamian styles of architecture, which characterizes the zestful & diverse nature of Petra. Ad-Deir is the highest rock-cut façade in the Petra Archaeological Park, Jordan. It is even taller than the renowned Al Khazneh. The way to Ad Dier involves around an hour's trekking along the ancient rock-cut paths. There is a pathway with over 750 uneven steps enclosed by red rock cliffs and bright-pink oleander blooms. The rock-cut facade of Ad Dier is around 154 ft high and 157 ft broad. The structure features a broken pediment, whose two sides flank a central tholos-shaped component. This component has a cone-shaped roof crowned by an urn. The platform in the front was probably carved to accommodate folks for religious ceremonies. Besides, there is a single square chamber inside the monastery. Notably, Ad Dier is believed to be built in honour of Nabatean king Obodas I. On the top, there is a restaurant. It is a magnificent point for the visitors to enjoy the view & take photographs.