Mughur Al Nasara Trail

One-way walking distance

1.8 km

Duration

0.45 - 1 hr

Level of Intensity

Easy

This trail starts at the Umm Sayhun Gate. Upon entry, walk a short distance until you reach the first valley. From there, turn left off the main road, following the same route as the Argoob Jumay’an Trail. Shortly after, on the left side of the trail, you'll find a sign indicating the Mughur Al Nasara Necropolis—Urn Tomb Trail, where your journey begins towards the southeast along this trail. Historically, Petra had various entrances from different directions, with the Siq from the east being the most significant. What makes the Mughur Al Nasara Necropolis Trail unique is that it guides you through Petra's northern entrance, an ancient passageway carved into the rock, connecting the Bayda Suburb in the north to Petra via the Mughur Nasara Necropolis. Unfortunately, most of this carved rock passage has been weathered by rain, and some of it comprises steps.

In the first half of the trail, you'll walk on colorful sandstone formations, the first part of which is formed of the pale creamy grey Disi Sandstone. After a short distance, you'll encounter the Umm Ishrin Sandstone formations, which are mostly visible at the Nasara Necropolis. Upon reaching the Mughur al Nasara Necropolis, you will see many rock-carved tombs; among the most famous are the Armours Tomb No. 649 and Tomb No. 676. This major suburb, located just outside the city, is thought to have been the Christian quarter of Petra. It was named 'Mughur al-nasara', meaning the 'Caves of the Christians' in Arabic, due to the crosses carved on facades of tombs in the area. Most of the tombs are small with a cavetto and without pilasters, typical of the Nabataean tombs found in Hegra, an ancient city in the northern part of Saudi Arabia.

As you proceed towards the royal tombs, you'll encounter a variety of small shrubs, including retama and sea squills. Finally, when you reach your final stop on this trail, the royal tombs on the western slope of the Khubtha Mountain, you'll delight in viewing these tombs, which include, from north to south, the Palace Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, Silk Tomb, and Urn Tomb. It is worth mentioning that you can explore this trail at any time of the day, but the best time to visit is in the afternoon. Also, don't forget to wear comfortable and appropriate clothing and shoes, and bring enough water for drinking.

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