150 km south of Amman
1st Century BC

Residents – FREE
Non-residents – FREE

NO

North 31° 0′ 3″
East 35° 45′ 55″

4.5/5

Dhat Ras

The Nabataean Temples at Dhat Ras, located in southern Jordan, represent a significant yet lesser-known example of Nabataean religious architecture and settlement. Dhat Ras, perched on a high plateau near the town of Tafila, was once an important Nabataean site strategically positioned along trade routes that connected Petra to the southern regions. The temples, carved into natural rock or built from finely cut stone blocks, reflect the Nabataeans’ architectural sophistication and their ability to harmonize construction with the surrounding landscape. These temples likely served both religious and community functions, acting as places of worship dedicated to deities like Dushara and Al-Uzza, key figures in the Nabataean pantheon.

Archaeological surveys at Dhat Ras have revealed not only temple remains but also residential structures, agricultural installations, and water management systems, illustrating a well-developed and organised community. The presence of inscriptions and pottery fragments further confirms Nabataean occupation from around the 1st century BCE to the 2nd century CE. While the site is not as extensively excavated or visited as Petra, it offers a quieter, more intimate look into Nabataean life and religious practices outside the capital. The temples at Dhat Ras stand as enduring reminders of the cultural richness and territorial reach of the Nabataean Kingdom.

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