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Jabal al-Madhbah

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Mountain
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Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)

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Jabal al-Madhbah is a prominent mountain in the ancient city of Petra, primarily known as the 'High Place of Sacrifice.' The summit stands at an elevation of approximately 1,035 meters and has a sweeping panoramic view over the entire Petra basin and the Wadi Araba. In antiquity, the Nabataeans utilized this site for religious ceremonies and offerings, evidenced by the rock-cut altars, basins, and two massive obelisks carved into the peak. Access is provided by a monumental staircase, also carved directly into the red sandstone, showcasing the advanced stonemasonry of this civilization. Geologically, the mountain consists of characteristic Cretaceous sandstone, shaped by erosion into bizarre forms and displaying typical color banding. Jabal al-Madhbah is considered one of the best-preserved cultic sites of Semitic antiquity. Beyond its religious significance, the summit likely served as an observation post for the defense of Petra due to its strategic location. Today, it remains an essential destination for visitors seeking to understand the spiritual dimension of the Nabataean capital.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C681115202325252319138
Rain mm453619104000171526

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
This mountain is located within the ancient city of Petra, typically reached by walking through the main archaeological site and ascending stone-carved steps.
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Best season
Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable temperatures for the exposed climb, as summer brings intense, exhausting heat to the desert canyon.
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Terrain & paths
The ascent involves navigating hundreds of steep, ancient rock-cut stairs and uneven natural sandstone pathways leading up to the sacred sacrificial summit.
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What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes with good traction, a wide hat, sunglasses, and copious amounts of drinking water are crucial for the strenuous climb.
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Parking
Visitors must typically use the designated visitor center parking areas near the main entrance to the archaeological park, as vehicles are not permitted inside the ancient city.
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Safety
The ancient steps can be worn and slippery, especially if there is sand; pace yourself in the heat and stay away from unprotected cliff edges.
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Time needed
The hike from the main basin to the summit and back typically takes about two to three hours, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness.

Geography

Coordinates
30.32300, 35.44600

Facts

  • The two obelisks on the summit are approximately 6 meters tall
  • The altar was carved entirely out of the living bedrock
  • Provides views of Jebel Harun (Mount Aaron)
  • Features a sophisticated drainage system for sacrificial blood or rain
  • Located at the heart of the ancient city area of Petra
  • The ascent takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on the path taken

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Great Temple of PetraGreat Temple of Petra<1 km · SEExplore →
The SiqThe Siq1 km · NExplore →
Ad-Deir (The Monastery)Ad-Deir (The Monastery)2 km · SEExplore →
Sharah MountainsSharah Mountains4 km · NExplore →
Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)5 km · SExplore →
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)5 km · EExplore →
Shobak CastleShobak Castle23 km · NEExplore →
Wadi GhuweirWadi Ghuweir25 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Jabal al-Madhbah (5)

The Two Obelisks📍 landmark

Two free-standing rock obelisks carved directly from the mountain ridge near the High Place of Sacrifice.

Jabal al Madhbah🌿 nature

A sacred mountain peak hosting the ancient High Place of Sacrifice and offering wide views over the valley.

Roman Soldier Tomb🏺 historical

An ornate Nabataean rock-cut tomb featuring Roman influences and three statues in niches.

Lion Monument📍 landmark

A monumental lion relief carved directly into the rock that once functioned as a public fountain.

Triclinium📍 landmark

A rock-cut dining chamber in Wadi Farasa designed for ceremonial banquets.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Dschabal al-Madhbah mean?
It means 'Mountain of the Altar' and is known as the High Place of Sacrifice in Petra.
How long does the climb take?
Approximately 30 to 45 minutes via steep stairs starting from the Theater.
What can you see at the top?
Two large obelisks and the sacrificial altars carved into the rock.
Is the view worth it?
Absolutely, it provides a fantastic panoramic view over the entire center of Petra.
Is there any shade?
Hardly any; sun protection and water are essential for the visit.
Jabal al-Madhbah: where is it located?
Jabal al-Madhbah is located in Jordan.
Jabal al-Madhbah: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Two Obelisks, Jabal al Madhbah, Roman Soldier Tomb.
Jabal al-Madhbah: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Jabal al-Madhbah: why is it worth visiting?
Jabal al-Madhbah is a prominent mountain in the ancient city of Petra, primarily known as the 'High Place of Sacrifice.' The summit stands at an elevation of approximately 1,035 meters and has a sweeping panoramic view over the entire Petra basin and the Wadi Araba.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

🗺️
Ma'an
Ma'an is the largest city in Jordan's arid south.

History & landmarks

Great Temple of Petra — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Great Temple of Petra
This vast monumental complex is located in the center of Petra.
Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)
The famous Treasury is the most iconic monument of Petra.
Royal Tombs of Petra — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Royal Tombs of Petra
This imposing row of tombs is carved into the rock face of Jabal al-Khubtha.
The Siq — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
The Siq
The narrow canyon is the dramatic main entrance to the ancient city of Petra.
Ad-Deir (The Monastery) — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Ad-Deir (The Monastery)
The Monastery is one of the largest monuments in Petra and requires climbing over 800 steps.
Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun) — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)
This mountain is the highest peak in the Petra area.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
This remote site north of Petra once served as a suburb for passing merchants.

More places

Petra — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Petra
The ancient rock city carved from pink sandstone by the Nabataeans is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Sharah Mountains — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Sharah Mountains
A striking mountain massif near Petra, characterized by deep valleys and steep cliffs.
Jabal Harun — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Jabal Harun
The highest peak in the Petra region, traditionally considered the burial site of Moses' brother Aaron.
Shobak Castle — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Shobak Castle
A Crusader castle situated on a conical mountain, offering a dramatic and rugged appearance.
Shams Ma&#39;an Solar Power Plant — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Shams Ma'an Solar Power Plant
One of the largest photovoltaic plants in the region, helping to reduce Jordan's energy dependence.
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Eshidiya Phosphate Mine
Jordan's largest phosphate mine in the Ma'an Governorate, providing large quantities of raw materials for fertilizers.
Jordan India Fertilizer Company (JIFCO) — Jabal al-Madhbah (Jordan)
Jordan India Fertilizer Company (JIFCO)
A joint venture that produces phosphoric acid from local phosphate ores for export to India.