At the top of this climb, the Nabataeans cut channels into the rock to drain away the blood of their sacrifices.
About High Place of Sacrifice
The High Place of Sacrifice was created by the Nabataeans as one of Petra's principal open-air religious sanctuaries, where ceremonies and animal sacrifices honoured their deities. Carved directly into the mountaintop rock, with altars and drainage channels, it survived remarkably intact. Such elevated sacred sites were central to Nabataean and wider ancient Near Eastern religion.
What High Place of Sacrifice actually is
The High Place of Sacrifice is one of the best-preserved ancient ritual sites in Petra, a Nabataean altar complex on a mountaintop reached by a steep climb of carved rock steps. From this windswept summit, used for religious ceremonies over two thousand years ago, you also gain some of the finest panoramic views over the ruins of Petra.
“The High Place of Sacrifice is one of the best-preserved ancient ritual sites in Petra, a Nabataean altar complex on a mountaintop reached by a steep climb of carved rock steps.”
An Altar Cut for Blood
At the summit, the Nabataeans carved a flat ceremonial platform from the living rock, complete with altars, a basin and, most strikingly, channels cut into the stone to drain away liquids, widely interpreted as the blood of sacrificed animals. Such high places were sacred sites where offerings were made to the Nabataean gods. The combination of the eerie, purpose-built ritual surface and the commanding views makes this one of Petra's most atmospheric climbs.
The Experience
Heading up a steep, well-cut staircase from the valley, passing obelisks and dramatic rock scenery, to reach the summit altar with its carved platform, basins and blood channels. The views over Petra, its tombs and the surrounding mountains are impressive. Descending by an alternative trail past further tombs and monuments makes a rewarding loop through quieter parts of the ancient city.
Why It Matters
The High Place of Sacrifice offers a rare, vivid insight into Nabataean religious practice, preserved in stone on a Petra mountaintop. Together with its spectacular vantage over the city, it deepens any visit beyond the famous facades, revealing the spiritual life of the people who built Petra.
Why Visit
One of Petra's best-preserved ritual sites, a mountaintop Nabataean sacrificial altar with carved blood channels and panoramic views over the ancient city.
Insider Tips
- 1
The climb is steep; go in the cooler hours and bring water.
- 2
Look for the carved altars, basins and blood-drainage channels.
- 3
Descend by the alternative trail past more tombs for a loop.
- 4
The summit gives some of Petra's best panoramic views.
