Qattar ad-Dayr Sanctuary

The sacred site of Qattar ad-Dayr Sanctuary along the path to ad-Dayr in Petra offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious life of the Nabataeans. On the right side of the stepped path to ad-Dayr, there is a gorge called Qattar ad-Dayr, where water drips from the rock and is collected in four rock-hewn basins. Near this area, numerous betyls, inscriptions, and graffiti can be seen, along with a sacred hall. A terrace 70 meters in length was artificially leveled, smoothed, and prepared by the Nabataeans as a sanctuary. This was a sacred place for the Nabataeans, where various votive betyls hewn into the rock can be found. Next to one of the niches containing two stelae, a votive inscription from the reign of Rabb’el II (A.D. 70–106) was found. It reads: ""This is the betyl of Bosra, which was made by Wahballahi, son of ... (name lost), for his own life and the life of Rabb’el, king of the Nabataeans.""

The inscription provides valuable insight into the religious practices and beliefs of the Nabataeans during that time period. The presence of votive betyls and inscriptions further highlights the significance of this sanctuary as a place of worship.

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Opening Hours
  • Daily 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM