Overview:

Petra Church is an ancient structure located within the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Located in the middle of the city, it is believed to have been a court house in the Byzantine period, and is one of the few surviving remains of that era at this site. The structure is composed of a large central courtyard supported by sixteen fluted Corinthian columns. The roof is a mixture of both domes and vaults. Today, the Church serves as a popular tourist site in Petra, drawing visitors from around the world. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Jordan
Prominent Features:

1. Greek Orthodox Church of the Acheiropoietos: Built in the late 4th century, this church is believed to be the first Christian church created in Jordan. Its architecture is unique, featuring a single large nave, three apses and no transepts. 2. The Tomb of St. John the Baptist: This underground shrine is believed to have held St. John the Baptist’s remains. It is one of the most important Christian sites in the area. 3. The Madaba Map: During excavations of the Church of the Acheiropoietos, the Madaba Map was discovered. This incredible mosaic features Palestine, Italy, Greece and parts of Asia and Africa. 4. Udhruh Castle: This remarkable fortress sits on a hilltop above the city of Petra. Built by the Crusaders during the 12th century, its rugged towers are an incredible sight. 5. The Obelisk Tomb: Located near the entrance to Petra, this tomb is remarkable for its unique facades. Its pillars and obelisks have been intricately carved and still bear traces of the red paint they once held. This national monument of Jordan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The ancient city of Petra in Jordan is home to a beautiful and significant early ecclesiastical place of worship, the Petra Church. This church dates back to at least the 5th century AD and is likely the oldest surviving church in the East, predating even the Baptistery of the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The Petra Church was built on the highest point of the ancient city and is visible from a great distance. Its basilica plan has three naves, and is decorated with Nabataean and Byzantine sculptures and decorations. It was probably founded by a hermit who had retreated into the mountains of Petra to seek solitude and contemplation. The building appears to have been originally constructed in the 4th century, although the current extended version is likely to have been constructed in the 6th century. The church also appears to have served as a place of sanctuary for refugees, having become quite symbolic during the time when Byzantine Christians were fleeing persecution in the 6th century. In more recent years, the Petra Church has served as a key idol of worship and reverence for Eastern Christians, especially those of the Greek and Syrian Orthodox denominations who make pilgrimages to the church to pray and take in its beauty. The church is located within the Petra Archaeological Park and visitors are welcome to attend religious services and admire the stunning architecture. You must visit one of these historical places in Jordan on your Jordan tour

Interesting facts:

1. Petra Church is one of the largest and most spectacular churches in the Jordanian city of Petra, located in the desert south of Amman. 2. Built by the Byzantine Empire, it is estimated to be between 450 and 600 years old. 3. Petra Church is the largest stone-cut church in the world. Its nave has a length of 64m, depth of 25m and a height of 23m. 4. It consists of four parts, including the main nave, 2 aisles and a small courtyard. 5. Delicate carvings can be seen adorning the walls, depicting scenes from the Bible such as the crucifixion of Christ. 6. It contains rare Byzantine icons and murals which are painted on the walls in bright colours. 7. The church is a reminder of the Eastern traditions and cultures present in the area in the past. 8. More than 500 treasure hunters raided Petra Church and removed more than 700 precious artifacts during the 19th century, though some artifacts have since been relocated to the Jordan Archaeological Museum. 9. In 1996, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared Petra Church a World Heritage Site. Visit one of the famous monuments of Jordan with your friends and family.