A recent excavation at the famed archaeological site of Petra, Jordan, has led to the remarkable discovery of a hidden tomb, much to the excitement of researchers from the University of St Andrews and their colleagues. Working under the shadow of the iconic Treasury building, the team uncovered 12 ancient skeletons buried beneath the stone, shedding fresh light on the Nabatean civilization.
This groundbreaking find was part of the Discovery Channel documentary titled Excavation Unknown, which features the adventurous Josh Gates leading viewers through the mystery and history of Petra. The presence of these skeletons and their associated artifacts offers potentially significant insights about Petra, which was once the thriving capital of the Nabatean Kingdom over 2,000 years ago.
The team, led by Professor Richard Bates, utilized non-invasive techniques like electromagnetic conductivity and ground-penetration radar to survey the area before digging commenced. Bates emphasized the primary aim of their surveys was to evaluate the structural condition around the Treasury and guide future preservation efforts.
When signs of possible underground chambers were detected, excavation plans were mapped out swiftly. Bates noted the international significance of the find: "Very few complete burials from the early Nabataeans have ever been recovered from Petra. This discovery could help fill gaps concerning how Petra evolved and the identity of the Nabataeans." This remarkable tomb appears to have been sealed for centuries.
Dr. Tim Kinnaird from the University’s School of Earth and Environmental Sciences played a pivotal role by sampling and dating the sediments around the grave. These analyses pointed to the construction of the tomb as occurring from the mid-1st century BC to the early 2nd century AD. Kinnaird suggested this tomb was likely built as both mausoleum and crypt during the reign of Aretas IV Philopatris, the most notable king of the Nabateans.
"It’s exhilarating to finally establish dates for the Treasury through our findings," Kinnaird stated. "Previously, we had operated on assumptions; now we have concrete evidence. This is a monumental achievement for our research community.” The tomb also revealed unique artifacts, with one skeleton found clasping what appeared to be pottery resembling the cinematic chalice from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
The secrets surrounding the Treasury building continue to captivate scholars and adventurers alike, as its mysteries stretch far beyond its alluring facade. Archaeologist Pearce Paul Creasman, the Executive Director of the American Center of Research (ACOR), praised the excavation’s significance and said, “This dig could change everything we understand about The Treasury, addressing questions about its origin and the broader Nabataean society.”
Each year, over one million visitors flock to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, to marvel at the craftsmanship and history embedded within the sandstone cliffs of the ancient city. Despite its fame, much about Petra remains shrouded in uncertainty. This latest excavation promises to illuminate aspects of the city’s flourishing past and its inhabitants’ customs and beliefs.
Historical evidence and buried artifacts can often provide invaluable insights, leading to the revision of previous interpretations. The findings from this tomb excavation not only enrich our historical knowledge but also highlight the importance of continued archaeological efforts at such significant sites. The cooperation from the Jordanian government and local authorities has proven advantageous for the exploration and preservation of Petra’s rich heritage.
Overall, the unearthing of this tomb opens new frontiers for exploration within Petra, allowing researchers to revisit existing narratives about the Nabataeans and their sophisticated societies. The reverberations of these findings may play a role not just locally, but also globally, as they contribute to our collective historical narrative.
It’s apparent the story of Petra is still being written, with the echoes of the past calling out for our attention as new discoveries like this add layers of intrigue to its tale. The coming years promise to be transformative for our comprehension of this ancient wonder.
