Qasr al Bint

Qasr al-Bint, also known as Qasr al-Bint Fir’aun (“Palace of the Pharaoh’s Daughter”), is one of the best-preserved free-standing structures in Petra, Jordan. Believed to have been built in the 1st century BCE, it likely served as a major Nabataean temple, possibly dedicated to the chief god Dushara. The structure features thick stone walls, a grand staircase, and a raised podium, reflecting strong Hellenistic and local architectural influences. Unlike most of Petra’s monuments, which are carved into rock, Qasr al-Bint was constructed using cut stone blocks. Its central location near the colonnaded street emphasizes its religious and ceremonial significance in the ancient city.