Petra National Trust

The Petra National Trust (PNT) is Jordan’s oldest national non-governmental organization dedicated to the preservation of heritage and the environment. Founded in 1989, PNT was established at a critical moment to safeguard the Petra World Heritage Site—one of the world's most iconic archaeological treasures—from the pressures of modern development, environmental degradation, and unsustainable tourism.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Preservation

PNT’s mission extends far beyond the physical conservation of monuments. The Trust operates on the principle that the protection of a site is inextricably linked to the empowerment of the people who live near it. Their work is organized around several key pillars:

• Advocacy and Policy: PNT serves as a vital watchdog and advisor, working with governmental bodies and international organizations to ensure that management plans for Petra adhere to the highest international standards of conservation and ethical tourism.
• Physical Conservation: The Trust initiates and oversees technical projects to protect the site's unique features, ranging from ancient Nabataean hydrological systems to the fragile sandstone facades that define the "Rose City."
• Education and Awareness: A flagship of PNT’s work is its award-winning Education and Outreach Program. By targeting youth in the Petra region, the Trust fosters a sense of pride and ownership, teaching the next generation that their heritage is a non-renewable resource and a driver for their future prosperity.
• Intangible Heritage: Recognizing that heritage is not just stone, PNT works to document and preserve the traditional knowledge, crafts, and oral histories of the local communities, ensuring that the living culture of the region remains vibrant.

Beyond the Siq: A Global Leader in Heritage Education

While its name is synonymous with Jordan's most famous site, PNT has become a regional leader in heritage education. Their methodologies for engaging local communities have been recognized globally, proving that conservation is most effective when it is community-led and integrated into the local social fabric.

Why PNT is a Vital Partner

For international heritage organizations and researchers, the Petra National Trust represents a bridge between world-class technical expertise and deep-rooted local knowledge. As a member of the International National Trusts Organisation (INTO), PNT aligns its efforts with global best practices while maintaining a steadfast focus on the specific cultural and environmental nuances of the Jordanian landscape.

Investing in the Future of the Past

PNT’s vision is clear: to ensure that Petra remains a source of inspiration and identity for generations to come. By balancing the needs of the environment, the local economy, and historical integrity, they provide a blueprint for how the world can protect its most precious landmarks in a rapidly changing world.