Archaeologists in Petra, Jordan have made a significant discovery beneath the famous Treasury monument, revealing a hidden tomb containing 12 well-preserved human skeletons and various grave offerings. This finding comes after previous tombs were found on the opposite side of the Treasury more than two decades ago. The team of researchers, including 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 building and carefully excavated the site by hand, uncovering the skeletons at their original burial site, dating back to the first century BC.
The discovery of the tomb provides valuable insight into the Nabatean Kingdom and the purpose of the Treasury monument, which remains a mystery to this day. The skeletal remains found in the tomb are believed to belong to both men and women of different ages, ranging from children to adults. Professor Richard Bates, a geophysicist involved in the excavation, mentioned that no complete burials had been found in the Treasury prior to this discovery, suggesting that further research on the newly found tomb could reveal more about the Nabatean people and their burial practices.
The Treasury in Petra, also known as Al Khazneh, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing over a million visitors annually. The iconic monument was featured in the film “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, adding to its allure and mystery. The recent excavation at the Treasury was documented in a two-part episode of the television series “Expedition Unknown” on the Discovery Channel, bringing international attention to the archaeological significance of the site. The team of researchers has identified additional voids in the area that could potentially lead to more tombs to be explored in the future.
The Nabatean Kingdom, known for its impressive rock-cut architecture and desert city of Petra, continues to reveal its secrets through ongoing archaeological excavations. The discovery of the tomb beneath the Treasury monument underscores the importance of preserving and studying the ancient remains found in the region. The joint efforts of Jordanian and American researchers have shed light on the burial practices of the Nabateans, offering a glimpse into their customs and traditions. Further analysis of the skeletons and grave offerings could provide valuable information about the social structure and daily life of the inhabitants of Petra during the first century BC.
The meticulous excavation process that led to the discovery of the tomb beneath the Treasury monument highlights the dedication and expertise of the archaeologists and researchers involved in the project. By using advanced technology such as ground-penetrating radar, the team was able to locate and investigate the hidden void beneath the building without causing damage to the structure. The careful excavation of the skeletal remains and grave offerings will contribute to the understanding of the Nabatean civilization and the significance of the Treasury monument within the ancient city of Petra. The ongoing exploration of Petra and its surrounding areas promises to unveil more secrets of this historical site, providing a deeper understanding of its cultural and architectural heritage.