A thought-provoking finding at Petra: by 106 CE when Romans arrived, over 2 meters of sediment had already accumulated at the plaza. Without maintenance, the Nabataean water system crumbled—dams collapsed, conduits clogged. Sediment analysis shows accumulation rates of 1.84-2.37 mm yearly, meaning 630-1,360 years of buildup. This timeline raises questions: the Nabataeans may not have been the original creators of Petra's monuments, challenging long-held assumptions about when this extraordinary site was built.
Water system failure caused 2 meters of sediment before Roman arrival
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Key facts
- By 106 CE when Romans arrived, over 2 meters (6 ft) of sediment had accumulated at Petra's plaza covering tomb entrances
- Without proper maintenance, Petra's water system crumbled over time: dams collapsed, conduits and tunnels clogged
- The 1.5 to 2.5 meters of sediment below the Roman limestone courtyard would have taken 630 to 1,360 years to accumulate at the rate of 1.84-2.37 mm per year
- This sediment timeline suggests the Nabataeans may not have been the original creators of the water system
- The sediment rate discrepancy raises questions about the true age and creators of Petra's monuments
Site mentioned
Sources
Archaeologists stunned by bizarre find at ancient Petra - Daily Expressexpress.co.uk
Archaeologists were astonished at finding white sandstone in the ancient city of Petra - a region filled exclusively with red sandstone.
In Jordan, a 'Stunning' Discovery Under Petra's Ancient Stonenytimes.com
A recent excavation has unearthed 12 human skeletons and a chamber of grave offerings near Petra's Treasury building, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Discovery of a Tomb in Petra Was Hailed as 'Significant ...news.artnet.com
Various archeologists claim a “groundbreaking” discovery in Petra, Jordan isn't as groundbreaking as the media made it out to be.
Massive Structure Found 'Hiding In Plain Sight' At Ancient Site Of Petranpr.org
Researchers have discovered a monumental structure amid the world-famous ruins of Petra, Jordan. It was apparently hiding in plain sight.
Archaeologists in Petra Discover Secret Tomb Hiding Beneath a ...smithsonianmag.com
The recent excavation beneath the Treasury has revealed 12 complete human skeletons and a trove of grave goods dating back 2000 years.
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