The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) on Tuesday celebrated the 19th anniversary of Petra's selection as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with a Nabati poetry festival attended by officials, cultural figures, and members of the local community.
اضافة اعلان
The event was held under the patronage of PDTRA Chief Commissioner Eng. Adnan Al-Suwaeir, alongside members of the Board of Commissioners and other guests.
In his remarks, Al-Suwaeir described the anniversary as an important national occasion that celebrates Petra's global achievement and highlights the unique status of the Rose City as one of the world's most significant cultural and historical landmarks.
He noted that Petra's selection as one of the New Seven Wonders in 2007 was more than recognition of its historical and archaeological value.
It also marked a turning point in strengthening the site's presence on the global tourism map and increasing international interest in the Nabataean city's extraordinary cultural heritage.
Al-Suwaeir said the authority continues to implement projects aimed at enhancing Petra's tourism and cultural offerings, improving visitors' experiences, and upgrading services within the archaeological site and its surrounding areas while preserving the site's outstanding historical and human value.
He added that the authority is committed to promoting culture and heritage as key drivers of tourism development by organizing events that connect visitors with Jordan's authentic traditions, stimulate tourism activity, and create economic opportunities for local communities through partnerships with national institutions.
The festival featured performances by leading Jordanian Nabati poets, who presented patriotic, heritage-inspired, and social-themed poems that were warmly received by the audience.
The celebration also included a screening of the documentary "Caravans of Petra," a musical performance by Akasha Al-Hilalat, and an exhibition showcasing traditional costumes, local products, and handicrafts, providing local artisans with an opportunity to present their work to visitors.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the PDTRA illuminated Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) with special lighting displays and projections symbolizing Petra's status as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, creating a distinctive atmosphere at the archaeological site.
The authority said the celebration reflects its ongoing commitment to reinforcing Petra's position as a world-class tourism and cultural destination while raising awareness of its historical and humanitarian significance.
Petra was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985 and was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
It remains one of Jordan's most iconic national symbols and a leading destination for visitors from around the world.