Archaeologists have recently uncovered a hidden tomb beneath the ancient rock-cut building of the Treasury monument in Petra, Jordan. This tomb contained 12 relatively well-preserved human skeletons along with an extensive array of grave offerings. The discovery was made after a team of researchers received permission from Jordanian authorities to undertake remote sensing in and around the Treasury. The tomb, which dates back to the first century BC, provides new insight into the Nabatean Kingdom and the purpose of the Treasury itself, which remains unknown.
The team of researchers, which included experts from the University of St. Andrews, the Jordanian Department of Antiquities, and the American Center of Research, used ground-penetrating radar to detect a void beneath the Treasury. Instead of digging straight down, which would have damaged part of the building, they carefully excavated the area by hand. Inside the tomb, they found 12 human skeletons at their original burial site, along with various grave goods. The remains likely include both men and women of different ages, though further analysis is needed to confirm this.
The discovery of the tomb beneath the Treasury monument is significant as it provides a unique opportunity to learn more about the Nabatean Kingdom. The Treasury itself is a popular tourist destination and one of Petra’s iconic monuments. The excavation of the tomb was featured in a two-part episode of the television series “Expedition Unknown.” The find opens up the possibility of uncovering additional tombs in the area, as indications of other voids were detected during the investigation.
The newly revealed tomb adds to the mystery surrounding the Treasury monument, which has captivated visitors for centuries. The Nabatean people, who carved the city into the walls of a desert canyon, left behind many unanswered questions about their civilization. The skeletons found in the tomb provide a glimpse into the lives of those who lived in Petra during ancient times. It is hoped that further analysis of the remains and grave offerings will shed more light on the customs and practices of the Nabateans.
The discovery of the hidden tomb beneath the Treasury reveals the potential for further archaeological exploration in Petra. With indications of other voids in the area that could also be tombs, there is a possibility of uncovering more burial sites and artifacts that could contribute to our understanding of the Nabatean Kingdom. The team of researchers involved in the excavation will continue their work to uncover more secrets hidden beneath the ancient city. The findings from the tomb offer a tantalizing glimpse into the past and open up new avenues of research for archaeologists and historians interested in the rich history of Petra and the Nabatean people.
