Temples & religious sites
Great Temple
The Great Temple
The Great Temple is a large religious and civic complex in Petra, covering approximately 7,500 square meters. Completed in the early 1st century AD during the Nabataean Kingdom, the site consists of sprawling columns, massive walls, and open courtyards. Visitors go here to understand the architectural scale of the ancient city's urban planning and to see the remnants of Nabataean architecture.
Getting There
The temple is located south of the Colonnaded Street within the main Petra archaeological park. Since the site is inside the pedestrian-only zone of the ancient city, you reach it by walking from the entrance. Depending on your pace and the route taken through the Siq, it typically takes 45 to 60 minutes to reach the city center area where the temple is situated.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk through the complex and explore the various courtyards and structural remains.
When to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. The site gets crowded during peak tourist seasons, particularly in spring and autumn. Avoid visiting during the peak midday hours when shade is limited across the open plaza.
Nearby Attractions
The temple is centrally located near several other historical sites, making it easy to combine with the following:
- Hare Edeom: 0km
- Temple of the Winged Lions: 0.2km
- Qasr al-Bint: 0.2km
- Church of Petra: 0.3km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors