Jordan: Ancient Petra and Desert Kingdom

Jordan, a desert kingdom in the Middle East, is home to Petra (one of the New Seven Wonders) and maintains relative stability in a turbulent region. The Hashemite Kingdom balances tradition and modernity while hosting large refugee populations.

Petra, the ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red cliffs, is Jordan's most famous site and appeared in Indiana Jones films. The Dead Sea, shared with Israel, is Earth's lowest point. Wadi Rum desert's dramatic landscapes attracted Lawrence of Arabia and numerous film productions. Roman ruins at Jerash are remarkably preserved.

Jordan lacks oil but has maintained stability through diplomatic skill and strong ties with Western nations while hosting millions of Palestinian, Iraqi, and Syrian refugees. The Hashemite monarchy claims descent from Prophet Muhammad. Despite resource scarcity, Jordan has developed education and tourism. Jordanian culture emphasizes Bedouin hospitality traditions and Arab heritage.