Petra Tour: High Place of Sacrifice
One of the most beautiful tours in Petra leads to the high sanctuary on the Jabal al-Madhbah, passing the so-called obelisks, and down into Wadi Farasa East.
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Immediately to the right behind the narrow passage where there used to be a gate or barrier, the path leads up to a small mountain terrace on the steep slope, where a horn-altar (1.65 m high) has been hewn out of the rock. A cube (67 x 56 x 70 cm) stands on a 50 cm high base. The four corner horns on the cornice are heavily weathered and can hardly be recognized.
The front of the altarpiece has also been eroded by the elements, so that its original shape is no longer visible. Possibly it had only a symbolic meaning, because the surface was too high for the placement of offerings and donations. The step, the platform and a small arched niche in the rock wall to the left of the altar were probably intended for this purpose.
The engravings of ibexes on the block date from later times.
(Information from: Dalman, p. 199)
© Photos, summary: Haupt & Binder
One of the most beautiful tours in Petra leads to the high sanctuary on the Jabal al-Madhbah, passing the so-called obelisks, and down into Wadi Farasa East.