Petra Siq canyon entrance

From the main entrance to modern Petra to its ancient part leads a long and narrow canyon — the Siq canyon. It serves as a kind of "gateway" into the mysterious world of the city carved into the rocks. At first glance, this is a natural gorge created by time and erosion. But if you look more closely, the Siq reveals its secrets, which make one doubt that we are dealing only with a natural formation.

Photo © Zvonarov

In this publication I want to share three mysteries of the canyon that seem to me extremely strange and inexplicable from the point of view of the official version.
The first mystery is the metallic layer in the rock.

Photo © Zvonarov

If you look closely, you can see straight stripes penetrating the stone mass. In some places they go almost perfectly straight, and their width varies from one to several centimeters. It gives the impression that the metal was poured or inserted into the rock. In nature, metal usually occurs differently: either in the form of ore veins, which break off, bifurcate and form chaotic inclusions, or in the form of nuggets. But long, clear and continuous lines of metal running through the entire rock look too neat to be called natural.

Photo © Zvonarov

The second mystery is the traces of melting stone.
Stone should not behave like wax or plasticine. But that is exactly the impression produced by many parts of the canyon. The rocks look as if their surfaces once flowed, softened, and then solidified into bizarre shapes. In some places one can discern the remains of columns, triangular ends of openings, and outlines of facades, as if architectural structures once stood here. But they were subjected to a colossal force that distorted their original appearance. All this looks not like the work of time, but like the result of a powerful destructive process — as if the stone had been exposed to high temperature and for a moment turned into a plastic material, after which it froze forever.

Photo © Zvonarov

The third mystery is the strange niches.
All along the canyon there are niches carved directly into the sheer walls. They are often located at great height, not easy to reach. Why would such a labor-intensive process be needed? At first glance — no practical sense. But the most surprising thing is that the niches were not created in chaotic rock. First the surface was clearly leveled, as if a whole mass of stone had been cut away, and only then neat rectangular recesses were made inside it. The question arises: who and for what purpose undertook such large-scale work?

Photo © Zvonarov

It is hard to believe that the nomadic Nabataeans, leading a rather simple way of life, suddenly decided to cut the rocks over an area of more than 260 square kilometers, leaving neither tools nor traces of intermediate technologies

Photo © Zvonarov

The Siq canyon remains not only the entrance to Petra, but also a separate mystery, preserving traces of processes that we are not yet able to explain. Whether this is the legacy of a civilization with other technologies, or the result of a catastrophe that changed the appearance of the mountains, it is difficult to call this canyon purely a natural formation.

What is the Siq in Petra and why is it significant?

The Siq is the narrow natural corridor that serves as the main entrance to the ancient city of Petra. It guides visitors through towering sandstone walls and culminates with the dramatic reveal of Al-Khazneh (the Treasury). The passage concentrates foot traffic and storytelling: every bend builds anticipation, framing the monument like a stage curtain.

How long does it take to walk through the Siq and what should I expect on the way?

Most visitors cover the Siq at a relaxed pace, allowing time to notice rock textures, Nabataean water channels and occasional niches carved into the walls. The path has a gentle gradient and a firm surface suitable for steady walking. Expect shade in parts, shifting light for photography, and occasional crowds near the Treasury reveal.

Is the path through the Siq the same route people call the “petra canyon”?

Yes, many travelers informally refer to the Siq as the “petra canyon” because it feels like a long canyon leading into the city. Technically it is a natural geological cleft later smoothed by water and adapted by the Nabataeans. In practice, this is the iconic walkway most visitors take to reach the heart of Petra.

What makes the Siq different from a typical “petra gorge” or slot canyon?

Unlike many slot canyons that are purely water-carved, the Siq originated as a natural fault and was subsequently shaped by erosion and human engineering. Its walls rise high and close, creating a winding, cinematic approach rather than a simple open valley. This blend of geology and ancient infrastructure sets it apart.

When is the best time of day to visit the Siq for photos and comfort?

Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light that enhances the color bands in the sandstone and helps avoid harsh midday glare. Cooler temperatures also make the walk more comfortable, especially in warmer months. Arriving early reduces crowding, giving more space for the Treasury reveal at the end.

Is the Siq suitable for families and travelers with limited mobility?

The route is generally level with a compact surface, so many families find it manageable. That said, it is a linear walk with limited seating and services along the corridor, so plan rests and bring water. Visitors with mobility needs should check current on-site options such as authorized carriages or assistance services before arrival.

Are there safety considerations, such as weather or flash floods, when walking the Siq?

Conditions can change with weather, so it’s wise to check the forecast and any official guidance at the entrance. After rainfall, authorities may impose precautions due to potential runoff in surrounding valleys. Follow staff instructions, keep to marked paths, and avoid lingering under overhangs during unsettled conditions.