HISTORY OF THE PETRA JORDAN

Petra, located in modern-day Jordan, is an ancient city with a rich and fascinating history. It was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom from around the 4th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. Here's a brief history of Petra:

Prehistoric and Early Beginnings

• Prehistoric Settlement: Evidence of human habitation in the Petra region dates back to the Paleolithic period (about 12,000 years ago). Early inhabitants were likely nomadic people who used the area's natural caves and rock shelters.

• Nabataean Period (4th century BCE - 2nd century CE): Petra is most famous for being the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. The Nabataeans were an Arab nomadic tribe who settled in the area, developing a sophisticated culture that combined influences from Arab, Greek, Egyptian, and Roman traditions. They became prosperous through trade, especially in spices, incense, and other luxury goods.

The Rise of Petra

• Strategic Location: Petra’s location at the crossroads of major trade routes made it a crucial hub for merchants traveling between the Arabian Peninsula, Egypt, and the Mediterranean. Its people mastered water management and built a series of impressive structures, including temples, tombs, and an extensive network of cisterns and channels.

• Architecture: The Nabataeans carved elaborate structures directly into the rose-red sandstone cliffs, including the famous Treasury (Al-Khazneh), the Monastery (Ad Deir), and the High Place of Sacrifice. These carvings were used for religious, administrative, and residential purposes.

• Flourishing Trade: Petra's wealth grew from its control of these trade routes, and it became a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. The Nabataeans developed a unique script, and their ability to manage water in a desert environment was advanced for its time.

Roman and Byzantine Period

• Roman Conquest (106 CE): In 106 CE, Petra fell to the Romans, who incorporated the Nabataean Kingdom into the Roman province of Arabia Petraea. Despite this, Petra maintained its status as a significant trade center under Roman rule, although it gradually declined in importance as trade routes shifted.

• Christianity and Decline: During the Byzantine period (4th–7th centuries CE), Petra saw the rise of Christianity, and several churches were built in the city. However, the city continued to decline, partly due to earthquakes and changing trade routes.

Islamic and Crusader Period

• Islamic Conquest (7th century): Petra’s significance diminished after the arrival of Islam in the 7th century, and the city was largely abandoned.

• Crusader Period (12th century): The Crusaders passed through the area, but they did not establish a permanent settlement. Petra remained largely forgotten by the outside world.

Rediscovery and Modern History

• Rediscovery (1812): Petra remained lost to the Western world for centuries until Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812. His accounts of the city piqued the interest of explorers, archaeologists, and historians.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site (1985): Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, and it is now considered one of the most important and well-preserved archaeological sites in the world. It also became one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

Today, Petra is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe to marvel at its ancient architecture, rock-cut tombs, and stunning desert landscape. The city’s legacy as a hub of ancient commerce, culture, and engineering continues to captivate people worldwide.