As one comes to the end of the siq, the first, and greatest monument of Petra slowly comes into view. This is the famous Treasury monument. It is probably a good idea to stop here and take a picture. It is an unforgettable moment. Parts of the Tresury monument have been protected from the elements, and are very well preserved. The lower parts however, were damaged by floods over the centuries. The reconstruction of the dam at the entrance of the siq now protects this monument from floods. The Treasury has sustained considerable damage from treasure hunters over the years due to the name given it by local people. The Treasury building however,was never used to store riches. Dan Gibson postulates that the building was actually the city library.
Once you step out of the siq you are faced with the tremendous scale of this monument. Is is several stories high, and especially spectacular in the morning sunlight. Once you have adjusted to it’s awe and beauty, have a look inside and see how much rock was removed to make the huge rooms.
The Treasury is best viewed between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm.
This photograph was taken, standing in the main doorway of the treasury, looking back at the end of the siq.
Special thanks to Val Hansen, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, England for sending us this photo.
It is impossible to describe the feeling of standing at the foot of the treasury, looking up at some of the amazing carvings and sharp lines that have survived for all these years.
A phenomenal view of the Treasury. Special thanks to Chris Spiegl for this exceptional photograph. Taken March 2001
A closeup view of the urn at the top of the Treasury. Special thanks to Peter Law for this great picture! Taken Fall 2002
Special thanks to Dr. George Kelsey for these great pictures! Taken in the 1970s.
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