Free Petra Worksheet | One of the 7 Wonders of the World
A Petra worksheet is a great way to introduce kids to one of the most fascinating wonders of the ancient world.
This free geography printable guides learners through the history, architecture, and cultural importance of Petra, the ancient Nabataean city carved into the rose-colored cliffs of Jordan.
I had the chance to visit Petra in 2000, and it’s still the most incredible place I’ve ever seen, an experience I hope this worksheet helps bring to life for curious young learners.
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Interesting facts about Petra
- Petra is often referred to as the “Rose City” because of the rosy hue of the sandstone cliffs and buildings that make up the city. It’s like stepping into a real-life fairy tale!
- The entrance to Petra is through a narrow, winding gorge called the Siq. As you walk through this magical pathway, the towering cliffs on both sides create a sense of wonder and anticipation.
- One of Petra’s most famous landmarks is Al-Khazneh, also known as “The Treasury.” It’s a magnificent temple carved into the sandstone cliffs and is believed to have been used as a tomb for an important Nabataean king.
- Did you know that Petra was lost to the Western world for hundreds of years? It was rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer named Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Who disguised himself as an Arab to gain access to the hidden city.
- The Nabataeans, who built Petra, were skilled engineers and used an advanced system of water management. They constructed channels and cisterns to collect and store water, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the city.
- People from various backgrounds, including Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, and Arabs, visited and lived in Petra. Creating a diverse and vibrant community.
- Petra is home to impressive rock-cut tombs.
- Petra has made appearances in popular culture. Including movies like “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” and “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.”
- Today, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Recognized for its outstanding cultural value and architectural marvels. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, adventure, and ancient wonders.
Petra research
Learn more about the ancient city of Petra and what makes it one of the most impressive sites in the world.
This Petra worksheet includes a short research activity and a detailed image to color, helping kids connect with the history in a creative and engaging way.
Below are the questions they’ll answer as part of the activity.
Where is it located?
Imagine a rugged, desert landscape with awe-inspiring cliffs and rocky canyons.
Nestled in the southwestern region of modern-day Jordan, Petra lies hidden within the timeless beauty of the Arabah Valley. Its location is simply breathtaking!
When was it built?
Petra’s construction began around the 6th century BCE and continued to develop and flourish until the 1st century CE.
The city flourished during the heyday of the Nabataean civilization. A prosperous trading people who carved their legacy into the sandstone cliffs.
What materials were used in making it?
You might be wondering how such a remarkable city was constructed amidst the rugged terrain. The Nabataeans skillfully harnessed the natural resources at their disposal.
They chiseled and shaped the magnificent architecture of Petra using the vibrant, rose-colored sandstone that characterizes the region. Can you imagine the dedication and craftsmanship required to shape these colossal structures?
Who built it?
The Nabataeans were the architects of this awe-inspiring city, transforming the barren landscape into a vibrant and bustling metropolis.
These skilled traders and engineers left an indelible mark on history. Showcasing their ingenuity and determination through the creation of Petra.
Why was it built?
Petra served as a crucial hub along the ancient trade routes. Connecting far-flung regions and facilitating commerce between the Mediterranean and the Arabian Peninsula.
Its strategic location allowed the Nabataeans to flourish, amassing wealth and influencing cultures from far and wide. Petra became a center of power, commerce, and cultural exchange.
Keep exploring with our free worksheets all about the continent of Asia—perfect for geography lessons.
Movies featuring Petra
Petra’s stunning scenery has inspired or appeared in several films over the years.
For younger audiences, Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (1977) was filmed partly in Petra, while Aladdin (2019) drew visual inspiration from the site’s architecture.
PG-13 films like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen include iconic scenes filmed directly in Petra. Other movies such as Queen of the Desert, The Mummy Returns, and Secret of the Incas also feature glimpses of the ancient city.
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Last Updated on 30 April 2025 by Clare Brown