cover of episode Petra: Ancient Wonder of the World

Petra: Ancient Wonder of the World

2024/8/29
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The Ancients

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The Nabataeans, a once-nomadic people, established Petra as a thriving trading post at the crossroads of major desert routes. Their ingenuity in water management transformed the arid landscape into a lush oasis, attracting the attention of powerful empires like the Greeks and Romans. The Treasury, Petra's iconic structure, reflects the Nabataeans' remarkable craftsmanship and engineering skills.
  • Petra was rediscovered by Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812 after being lost to the Western world for centuries.
  • The Nabataeans' origins are uncertain, possibly stemming from nomadic Arab tribes.
  • Petra's strategic location facilitated its growth as a major trade center for goods like spices, silks, and incense.

Shownotes Transcript

Despite being one of the most visited historic spots on the planet today, Petra was once a so-called ‘lost city,’ hidden from western eyes in a vast desert landscape for hundreds of years.

What is the story of this rose-red ancient city and its inhabitants? The powerful Nabataean civilisation who built Petra more than two thousand years ago, but remain a mystery to so many today.

Who were their kings? Their gods and goddesses? And how were they able to turn an arid desert into a green oasis?

In this special episode, Tristan Hughes goes to Petra in Jordan, one of the seven wonders of the world, to discover the secrets himself.

Presented by Tristan Hughes. Written and produced by Charlotte Long. Mixed and edited by Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.

Special thanks to Visit Jordan, Matthew Vincent and Jodi Magness.

The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.

The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! 

Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. 

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