Hidden high in the hills, the Monastery is one of the legendary monuments of Petra. Similar in design to the Treasury but far bigger (50m wide and 45m high), it was built in the 3rd century BC as a Nabataean tomb. It derives its name from the crosses carved on the inside walls, suggestive of its use as a church in Byzantine times. The ancient rock-cut path of more than 800 steps starts from the Nabataean Museum and follows the old processional route.
The cave teashop opposite is a good vantage point for admiring the Monastery’s Hellenistic facade – particularly spectacular bathed in mid-afternoon sunlight. The courtyard in front of the Monastery was once surrounded by columns and was used for sacred ceremonies.
Behind the teashop, tomb 468 is worth exploring for another fine facade, some defaced carvings and excellent views. A trail leads up to stunning viewpoints over Wadi Araba, Israel and the Palestinian Territories and south to the peak of Jebel Haroun, topped by a small white shrine.
The easy-to-follow trail to the Monastery starts from the Nabataean Museum and takes about 40 minutes (if in doubt, look for weary hikers coming down). Alternatively, donkeys (with a guide) can be hired for about JD30 return depending on your negotiation skills; you’re better off walking coming down as the donkeys travel fast and the way is steep and slippery, making for an uncomfortable and at times dangerous journey for both you and your mount. The trip is best started in mid-afternoon when there is welcome shade and the Monastery is at its most photogenic. The remarkable ancient rock-cut path of more than 800 steps follows the old processional route and is a spectacle of weird and wonderfully tortured stone. There are several side paths to explore, including a detour to the Lion Tomb (Lion Triclinium) , set in a gully. The two weather-beaten lions that lend the tomb its name face each other at the base of the monument.
An exciting 6km hike leads from the Monastery to Siq al-Barid (Little Petra; it takes about 2½ hours and involves some easy scrambling). Ask at Petra Visitor Centre or at local travel agencies for a guide as the route is difficult to find.
