The Palace Tombs in Petra
The Palace Tombs in Petra are a group of ancient rock-cut tombs located in the southwestern part of the city of Petra, in modern-day Jordan. They are considered to be among the most impressive and ornate tombs in Petra. The Palace Tombs are so named because of their grand size and elaborate facades, which resemble the front of a palace. They are carved directly into the sandstone cliffs, with the façades facing east towards the rising sun. The tombs date back to the 1st century AD and are believed to have been constructed for the elite members of the Nabataean society, who were the original inhabitants of Petra. There are three main Palace Tombs: the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, and the Corinthian Tomb. The Urn Tomb is the largest of the three and is so named because of the large urn that is carved into the top of the façade. The Silk Tomb is named for the color of the rock, which has a silky texture, while the Corinthian Tomb is named for the decorative columns that are carved into the façade. The Palace Tombs are one of the most popular attractions in Petra and are visited by thousands of tourists every year. They are a testament to the incredible architectural and engineering skills of the Nabataean people and are an important part of Jordan's cultural heritage.
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