Hotels near High Place of Sacrifice

The High Place of Sacrifice (Al-Madbah) is the best-preserved Nabatean ceremonial altar in Petra - perched on the summit of Jebel Madhbah mountain (about 200 m above the city centre). The flat-topped platform features 2 carved obelisks (each 6 metres tall, cut from the bedrock), a stone-carved altar, and channels designed to drain the blood of sacrificed animals. The Nabateans used the platform for religious ceremonies dedicated to their main god Dushara.

Reached by 600+ ancient steps cut into the cliff (50 minutes up; 30 minutes down). The summit offers a sweeping 360-degree view of the entire Petra archaeological zone - the best panorama of the city, much better than ground level photos. Best descended via the Wadi Farasa back route which passes the Renaissance Tomb, Soldier's Tomb, and Lion Triclinium - a quieter alternative to retracing the climb.

Pro Tip: Climb at 14:00-16:00 - the afternoon light hits the altar from the west and the temperature at the summit drops 5-8 degrees due to elevation. The Wadi Farasa descent route is one of Petra's most beautiful walks and almost empty of tourists.