Umm al Biyara Trail

Trail overview

The hike begins at a bend in the main trail at Rasasa and culminates at the summit of Umm al-Biyara mountain. The initial section of the hike is likely the most challenging, involving a steep ascent. Ascending to the peak of Umm al-Biyara typically requires at least half a day. Sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and ample water are essential due to the steep and demanding terrain, especially in the heat of the day. The trail includes steep segments, but the staircase leading to the summit is generally safe and well-maintained. Umm al-Biyara is the highest and most prominent mountain in Petra. An ancient Edomite settlement was unearthed at its summit, and a Nabataean royal hilltop residence added historical significance to the hike. The panoramic views from the top justify the challenging ascent. Although reaching the summit is strenuous, the vistas encompassing the ancient city center of Petra, the modern town of Wadi Musa, Jabal Haroun, and Wadi al-Siyyagh make it worthwhile. The ancient staircase leading to the summit has been restored.

Trail Details

Starting Point: Petra/Main Trail/al Rasasa

Endpoint: Petra/Umm al Biyara

Category: Heritage/Environmental/Geological

Distance: 2.6 Km/3412 Steps

Calories Burn: 136 Calories

Duration: 2.30 - 2.45 Hours/Non-stop

Grade: Moderate/Difficult

Tour: One-way

The kingdom of Edom 

The kingdom of Edom thrived from the 13th to the 8th centuries B.C., spanning from the Wadi el-Hasa at the southern end of the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba in the south. Despite its prosperity, the kingdom met its downfall when it was destroyed by the Neo-Babylonians in the 6th century B.C. During the late Iron Age, Jordan was home to three prominent kingdoms: the Ammonites in the north, the Moabites in the center, and the Edomites in the south. Among these, the Edomite Kingdom was particularly noted for its prosperity. The Edomites were known for their fortified settlements and villages scattered throughout southern Jordan, including notable sites such as Tawilan, Ba'ja, Busayra, Sela, and al Mualaq. Notably, the settlement atop Umm al-Biyara (Arabic for "Mother of Cisterns"), the highest mountain in Petra's urban area and one of the most famous Edomite sites, serves as a testament to their hilltop living during the late Iron Age.

The Ancient Umm al-Biyara Processional Way

The Nabataean processional way on the south-east side of Umm al-Biyara mountain is adorned with rock-cut niches, believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and processions leading to the sacred summit. These features underscore its significance in the religious and social life of ancient Edomite and Nabataean inhabitants. At the beginning of the ascent to Umm al-Biyara, remnants of an arch that once spanned this monumental approach mark the start of the ceremonial route up the mountain. A notable feature along this path is a couloir—a massive double-flanking ramp carved into the mountainside—that stands as a testament to the ceremonial significance of the ascent to the summit. Archaeologists suggest that during the Edomite period, the summit was accessible only via an extremely steep trail, predating the construction of Nabataean steps. Significant efforts were undertaken by the Jordanian Department of Antiquities in the 1990s and between 2001 and 2004 to clean, renovate, and enhance accessibility to this route, transforming what was once a perilous and arduous ascent into a more manageable journey for tourists.

Ruins of the Ancient Edomite Settlement on Umm al-Biyara

The Edomite settlement of the 7th and 6th centuries BC atop the naturally fortified rock of Umm al-Biyara, standing 1000 meters above sea level, underscores its strategic significance for defensive purposes. Excavations conducted in 1960, 1963, and 1965 by Crystal Bennett of the British School of Archaeology revealed a thriving community. The remains of houses and water cisterns indicate a society sustained by agriculture and trade. Bennett's excavations uncovered an unwalled site comprising drystone houses with long corridor rooms and smaller square rooms. These dwellings were built adjacent to a continuous wall that spanned the excavation area. Discoveries such as loom weights and spindle whorls suggest domestic activities were prevalent. Numerous deep cisterns, likely for water storage, were hewn into the peak. The discovery of a seal belonging to Qos-Gabar, an Edomite king of the 7th century BC, further emphasizes the historical significance of the site. Evidence suggests that the Edomite settlement on the summit of Umm al-Biyara was destroyed by fire, marking a significant event in its history.

Umm al-Biyara Cisterns

Umm al-Biyara’ means 'mother of cisterns'. This archaeological site showcases numerous piriform rock-cut plastered cisterns with circular openings and eroded channels, along with several large basins 6 meters deep. Near the eastern edge of the plateau, eight rock-cut piriform cisterns with rainwater channels were discovered. The piriform-shaped cisterns atop Umm al-Biyara in Petra are 4 meters deep and 6 meters wide. These installations were crucial for catching rainwater and supplying water to the settlement. At the summit of Umm al-Biyara, there is no natural water source; if the rock-cut water cisterns have been depleted or consumed, all water must be carried up from the springs and wadis of the Petra basin. The strategic placement of these cisterns and basins ensured a reliable water supply for the inhabitants. The presence of such sophisticated rock-cut features indicates an advanced water management system at 'Umm al-Biyara'.

Nabataean Structures on Top of Umm al-Biyara

Excavations conducted by the International Umm al-Biyara Project (IUBP) between 2010 and 2014 revealed that the Nabataeans constructed a series of structures around the first century BC. These structures were built on the eastern side, right on the edge of the rock, and occupy the hill's most prominent spots. They provided a stunning view of Petra and could be seen from the city center and beyond. Excavations also revealed that the buildings on the eastern side of Umm al-Biyara were reused throughout the Roman period, before being destroyed by an earthquake in 363 CE. The most visible structure is a royal palace, with limestone floors and decorative marble walls that served the Nabataean elite, most likely the kings. It has several luxurious rooms, including one with a hypocaust floor-heating system that extends into the walls. A small aqueduct fed water into a basin on the southern side. These amenities, accompanied by the presence of bathtubs and latrine structures, reflect the high status of the occupants. A Nabataean king enjoyed a panoramic view of the capital from a high point, with the rest of the plateau, except for some watchtowers, largely unoccupied.

The Panoramic View from Umm al-Biyara 

The Petra City Center panorama offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the ancient city from the top of the Umm al-Biyara plateau. It showcases the iconic royal tombs carved into the rose-red cliffs, along with the vast expanse of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also admire the intricate natural rock formations, rock-cut architecture, and tombs that make Petra a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, visitors can explore the ancient Nabatean ruins and learn about the history and culture of this once-thriving city.

The panoramic view from Umm al-Biyara vividly captures the essence of Petra's beauty and historical significance, offering a breathtaking glimpse into its rich history and unique architecture at the City Center. It is a must-see for anyone visiting this ancient wonder of the world. This remarkable viewpoint allows one to fully appreciate the grandeur and splendor of Petra from a unique perspective. For tourists, the view from Umm al-Biyara offers a memorable and immersive experience that enhances their visit. From a marketing standpoint, this vantage point is invaluable in promoting Petra as a premier travel destination, showcasing its unmatched beauty and historical depth.