Petra is an ancient city carved into sandstone, located in modern-day Jordan. The Nabataeans, a nomadic Arab tribe, began building the extraordinary architecture around 5000 BC. Known as “Rose City” for its red-colored rock, Petra has a fascinating history, appearing in the Bible and falling under Roman rule. Discover the secrets of one of the Seven Wonders of the World with these 10 amazing facts.
Re-Discovery
Following the Crusades, Petra was forgotten by the Western world until it was re-discovered by Johann Ludwig Burchardt in 1812. The Swiss traveler was motivated to discover hidden treasures and had heard about the ruins from locals. He disguised himself as a Muslim pilgrim to hide his avaricious intentions, and a Bedouin guide took him through a narrow passage to the “Rose City.” Burchardt’s detailed descriptions of the ancient city led to further expeditions and excavations at the turn of the 20th century.
Nabataeans Were Master Stone Carvers
The Nabataeans used the natural landscape to build houses, temples, and tombs into the rock face. The only entrance into the city was through the Siq, a narrow gorge that protected the citizens from invaders. Builders used picks and wedges to mold the sandstone into their desired shape. The precision and detail Nabataean architects displayed remain impressive thousands of years later.
Built Efficient Plumbing Systems in the Desert
In addition to masterful carving, the Nabataeans engineered a sophisticated water management system. It included numerous cisterns, canals, and aqueducts that collected, stored, and distributed rainwater, river water, and spring water for drinking and agriculture. Water was scarce in the desert, and managing the resource became crucial to their survival.
Biblical Connection
The ancient city of Petra is referenced in the Bible, specifically its Hebrew name “Sela,” which translates to “rock” or “cliff.” The Nabataeans were master traders, and their settlements were located along various trade routes. The city also appears in the great exodus of Moses and the Israelites. Some believe their convoy passed through and was the location of one of his miracles, when he struck a rock and turned it into water.
Came Under Roman Rule
In 106 AD, Petra was annexed by the Roman Empire. After serving as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, the city continued to prosper for 300 years as the capital of the Roman province of Arabia Petraea. Structures and architecture display Roman influence as seen in the Monastery, the Treasury, and the Triumphal Arch, which marked the entrance to the city.
Petra Was Eventually Abandoned
In 363 AD, an earthquake struck the region, causing widespread destruction to buildings and major infrastructure. With the water system damaged, sustaining life in the desert was hard. The Romans also shifted trade routes further north and opened up new routes overseas. By the 8th century, Petra lost its significance and was largely abandoned. Bedouins, a nomadic Arab tribe, inhabited the deserted city for centuries until it was rediscovered in the 19th century.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1985, the Rose City was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The inscription marked the settlement as a natural and cultural site of “outstanding universal value.” It also gives the site global recognition and preserves it for future generations. The title generates revenue by attracting tourists. Every year, Petra attracts around one million visitors.
Indiana Jones and the Holy Grail
The ancient city was a climactic backdrop to the 1989 film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Specifically, the Treasury, a beautiful rock-carved structure featuring long pillars, served as the temple entrance and the location of the Holy Grail. The final sequence features spectacular architecture and is the perfect setting for Harrison Ford and Sean Connery to search for lost treasure.
Listed As One of the New Seven Wonders of the World
In 2007, Petra became one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” with 100 million votes. The ancient city is an architectural treasure, with buildings, temples, and tombs carved into sandstone in the Jordan desert. Petra enjoys the title alongside the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, Chichen Itza, Christ the Redeemer, the Colosseum, and the Taj Mahal.
Scientists Are Still Uncovering Petra and Its History
Petra and the Nabataens still hold many mysteries for archaeologists. Much of the ancient city, including residential homes, markets, and other secular buildings, remains unexcavated and buried. Many questions remain regarding Nabataean daily life, social hierarchy, and family structures. Scientists hope to explore the Rose City and uncover fascinating discoveries about those who lived in the ancient city.
