Sik is an Arabic word meaning “the passage” and is the natural passage through the rock leading to the city. It has a maximum height of 1,200 metres and varies in width from 3 – 17 metres. This passage provided a natural defence since it could not be seen from a distance. At the entrance to the Sik is a dam that was built by the Nabataeans to protect against floods. The dam was reconstructed in 1965 after the death of some French Tourists in a flash flood.
On either side of the Sik can be seen channels carved into the rock that provided water to the city over many kilometres. It is said that 80% of the water collection and distribution systems are still usable. Within the Sik are many statues that confirm the religious importance of the site.
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