what to buy in petra jordan
What to Buy in Petra, Jordan: A Comprehensive Guide for Souvenirs and Handicrafts
Petra, Jordan’s Rose City, is not only famous for its awe-inspiring ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes but also for its unique souvenirs and handicrafts. As you wander through the winding siq (the narrow gorge leading into Petra) and explore its remarkable rock-hewn temples, tombs, and monuments, you’ll find an array of shops and stalls selling locally made products that reflect the rich history and culture of Jordan.
Shopping in Petra is not just about picking up a trinket to remind you of your visit. It’s an opportunity to bring home a piece of Jordanian heritage, support local artisans, and carry away memories of a place that has captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. Whether you’re looking for a keepsake for yourself or a meaningful gift for someone special, Petra offers a diverse selection of products. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to buy in Petra, Jordan.
One of the most popular items to buy in Petra is handcrafted silver jewelry. Jordan is renowned for its skilled silversmiths who create beautiful pieces inspired by Bedouin traditions and Petra’s ancient history. You’ll find intricate designs featuring symbols and motifs that have cultural significance, such as the traditional Bedouin “Kohl” eye and various geometric patterns.
Jewelry pieces include necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings, many of which incorporate locally sourced gemstones such as turquoise, coral, and lapis lazuli. If you’re looking for something truly special, consider purchasing a piece of silver jewelry featuring Petra’s iconic rose-red color inlaid with semi-precious stones. These handmade pieces are not only beautiful but also tell a story of the region’s cultural heritage.
The Bedouin people, who have lived in Jordan for centuries, are known for their expert weaving skills. When visiting Petra, you’ll find a variety of textiles that reflect their traditions, including woolen carpets, blankets, and throws. These textiles are often made using techniques passed down through generations and feature bold, colorful patterns inspired by the desert landscape and Bedouin life.
Bedouin scarves, shawls, and rugs are perfect souvenirs that combine both functionality and beauty. They make great home decor or thoughtful gifts, as they provide a glimpse into Jordan’s cultural history while being practical and durable. Many of the woven items are made from natural materials such as wool, cotton, and silk, which make them soft and comfortable.
Pottery is a traditional craft in Jordan, and Petra is no exception. Local artisans create stunning pottery pieces, often hand-painted with intricate designs that reflect the beauty of the desert and the surrounding landscape. You can find decorative plates, bowls, and mugs that showcase traditional geometric patterns, as well as more contemporary designs with a modern twist.
If you’re looking for a memorable and authentic souvenir from Petra, consider purchasing a piece of Jordanian ceramic art. These items are not only functional but also serve as beautiful reminders of your time in the Rose City. Many shops in Petra also offer smaller pottery items like incense holders or miniature figurines, making them perfect for gifts or mementos.
Jordan’s rich history as a crossroads of civilizations is reflected in its culinary traditions, and what better way to bring home a taste of the country than with local spices and herbs? In Petra, you’ll find shops selling a variety of spices such as za’atar (a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac), sumac (a tangy spice used in Middle Eastern cuisine), and saffron, which is known for its use in Jordanian dishes like Mansaf.
You’ll also find a wide selection of herbs, teas, and oils that are native to the region. Aromatic herbs such as mint, sage, and chamomile are commonly used in traditional Jordanian cooking and for making herbal teas. Olive oil is another popular product to buy, as Jordan is famous for producing high-quality olive oil, which is often infused with herbs and spices for added flavor.
Jordanian leather goods are well-regarded for their quality and craftsmanship. In Petra, you’ll find a variety of leather items, including bags, wallets, belts, and sandals. Many of these products are handmade by local artisans using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations. The leather used is often soft, durable, and treated with natural dyes that give the products a rich, earthy color.
If you’re looking for a timeless and functional souvenir, a leather handbag or wallet from Petra could be a perfect choice. These items often feature intricate stitching and embossed designs that make them stand out as beautiful and unique pieces. Leather sandals, known as “Bedouin slippers,” are also a popular purchase, offering both style and comfort for your travels.
Petra’s unique beauty has inspired countless artists, and you’ll find many shops in Petra selling paintings and prints that depict the ancient city. These artworks often feature the iconic rock formations, tombs, and temples of Petra, with their stunning pink hues and intricate carvings. Many local artists create these works using traditional techniques, and some even paint on pieces of stone or pottery, making their pieces truly one-of-a-kind.
Whether you prefer a small print to hang on your wall or a larger canvas to commemorate your visit, purchasing Petra-inspired artwork is a wonderful way to remember your time in this remarkable city. The artwork also supports local artists, contributing to the preservation of Petra’s artistic traditions.
Frankincense and myrrh have been used for centuries in religious ceremonies, medicine, and as incense. These aromatic resins are still harvested in the region today, and you can purchase them as incense or in essential oil form in Petra. The sweet, earthy aroma of frankincense and myrrh is often associated with the ancient world, and buying them in Petra is a way to take home a piece of this ancient tradition.
You’ll find frankincense and myrrh available at many of the souvenir shops in Petra, often in beautifully decorated containers or as part of incense sets. These resins are perfect for use in your home to create a relaxing and spiritual atmosphere.
Of course, no trip to Petra would be complete without picking up some Petra-themed souvenirs. You’ll find plenty of items bearing the image of Petra’s most famous landmarks, such as the Treasury (Al-Khazneh), the Monastery (Ad-Deir), and the Siq. Keychains, magnets, postcards, and t-shirts featuring these iconic images make for great gifts or keepsakes that are easy to pack and take home.
For those who prefer something a bit more unusual, you can also find Petra-themed pottery, wooden figurines, and even models of the Treasury and other structures in the city, allowing you to carry home a miniature version of this historical marvel.
Shopping in Petra is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Jordanian culture while picking up unique souvenirs that reflect the region’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. From handcrafted silver jewelry to Bedouin textiles, Jordanian pottery, spices, and more, Petra offers an array of items that will remind you of your visit to this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Not only will your purchases support local artisans, but they will also provide you with tangible memories of a place that has stood the test of time. So, when you visit Petra, take some time to explore the shops and stalls, and don’t forget to bring home a piece of Jordan that will stay with you long after your journey has ended.
At 4Petra.com, we are dedicated to raising awareness about Petra’s significance and the challenges it faces. By joining our community, you can stay informed, participate in discussions, and contribute to initiatives aimed at preserving this world heritage icon.
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