The Colonnaded Street
AD 100–200
The Colonnaded Street is one of the most important urban features in the heart of Nabataean Petra. It served as the main thoroughfare and the central axis of commercial, religious, and social life during the late Nabataean period and the subsequent Roman era. The remains of the street lie today in the center of Petra, and it is believed that its construction and full development took place between the first and second centuries AD, at a time when Nabataean influence was at its peak prior to the kingdom’s annexation by the Roman Empire in AD 106.
The street formed the primary link between major structures in the city. It began at the bridge leading to Petra’s main entrance and extended westward toward the Temple of the Winged Lions, continuing to the sacred precinct containing the Great Temple, the Market Complex, and Qasr al-Bint. Architectural remains indicate that the street was originally paved with large stone slabs and carefully planned to facilitate smooth circulation and the organization of markets and daily activities for residents and visitors.
Rows of Corinthian columns lined both sides of the street, numbering approximately 120 columns, most of which were crowned with finely carved capitals and intricate decoration. These columns supported porticoes that provided shade and shelter for pedestrians and housed the shops that lined the street, forming the core of Petra’s main marketplace.
Archaeological discoveries in the surrounding area reveal the presence of service and commercial buildings, including small workshops and shops selling local products such as frankincense, spices, and textiles, as well as luxury goods transported via caravan routes for which Petra played a central role. Excavations have also uncovered a water channel running parallel to the street, used for drainage and water supply, further demonstrating the Nabataeans’ advanced engineering skills and sophisticated hydraulic system.
Following Petra’s incorporation into Roman rule, parts of the street were modified and expanded in accordance with the Roman urban model known as the decumanus. This is evident in the stone paving techniques, the use of supporting arches, and the column styles, which reflect a blend of Nabataean and Roman characteristics, making the street a unique example of urban evolution during a period of cultural transition.
Although earthquakes—particularly the earthquake of AD 363—caused the collapse of many columns and surrounding buildings, large sections of the street remain visible today. It offers visitors valuable insight into the organization of daily life in ancient Petra and stands as one of the city’s most visually impressive features, clearly illustrating Nabataean urban planning and the intelligent use of architectural space to serve society, religious rituals, and economic activity.
With its rich historical and architectural value, the Colonnaded Street remains a living testament to Nabataean urban vision, combining functional beauty with engineering precision. Today, it is one of Petra’s most prominent landmarks, underscoring the city’s importance as a World Heritage Site and a unique archaeological destination.