Monastery in Petra, Jordan © Tomi Tenetz | Dreamstime.com
This week we’re journeying east to The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, a beautiful, historic country consistently inhabited since the Paleolithic period. Jordan’s storied past can be traced in the ancient ruins of castles, cities and monuments spread throughout the country. Here are a few of the top things to see.

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Petra is an old, archaeological city in southern Jordan, known as Rose City after its famous stone-cut architecture. Recently named one of the New7Wonders of the World, Petra was established as early as 312 BC, and is one of the most historic sites still standing in the world.

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Rising 2,680 feet above sea level is Mount Nebo, a 4th-century ridge mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as the place where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land. The view from the summit offers a panorama of the Holy Land, the valley of the River Jordan and Jerusalem on a clear day.

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The Dead Sea is a salt lake located 1,412 feet below sea level — the lowest elevation on land. Nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean, its harsh environment prevents plants and animals from thriving, thus the name. The phenomenon attracts visitors for its beauty and unique salt-based health properties.

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Also known as The Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is valley cut into sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan. It is the largest wadi in Jordan, offering views to the Red Sea and Saudi border on a clear day. Wadi Rum sees visitors for trekking, climbing, camel and horse safaris and luxury camping retreats.

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The 12th century saw the construction of Ajloun Castle, built on the ruins of a monastery to guard three wadis in the Jordan Valley. Today, much of the original castle remains intact and houses two museums with artifacts from the various time periods of the region.

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Roman history abounds in Jordan. One of the most stunning architectural landmarks remaining from its influence is a 6,000-seat, 2nd-century Roman Theatre. Built into the hillside, the amphitheater’s highest seats offer beautiful views of the surrounding region, and the theatre is used to this day for special performances and festivals.

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Towering over the Amman Citadel is the historic Temple of Hercules, built in the same period as the Roman amphitheater, between 162 and 166 AD. It’s one of the most significant Roman structures in the region, containing an impressive hand-carved stone resembling the hand of Hercules.