The UnXplained: Rise and Fall of the Lost City of Petra (Season 5)
HISTORY・4 minutes read
Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt disguised himself as a Bedouin to uncover the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, a city built by the Nabateans blending various cultural influences and named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Petra's decline began with a flood in the 5th century, and its spiritual significance is tied to the Bible, with the mountain Jebel Haroon believed to be the burial place of Moses's brother Aaron.
Insights
- Johann Ludwig Burckhardt's disguise as a Bedouin and dedication to learning Arabic were crucial in uncovering the hidden city of Petra, showcasing the significance of cultural immersion and adaptability in exploration.
- Petra's blend of various cultural influences in its architecture, its recognition as a New Seven Wonder of the World, and its spiritual connections, such as Jebel Haroon being linked to Moses's brother Aaron, underscore the city's historical, cultural, and religious importance, making it a multifaceted site of global significance.
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Recent questions
What is the ancient city of Petra?
A city in Jordan with iconic carved architecture.
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Summary
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Uncovering Petra: Lost City of Mysteries
- In June 1812, Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt embarked on a journey to uncover the mysterious ancient city of Petra hidden in the deserts of Jordan, a city that had been kept secret from foreigners for centuries. To achieve this, Burckhardt immersed himself in the local culture, learning Arabic and donning a Bedouin outfit as a disguise to gain access to Petra.
- Petra, a city thriving between 500 BC and 500 AD with a population of 30,000 to 50,000 people, was built by the Nabateans who blended Greek, Roman, Syrian, and Iraqi influences to create its iconic carved architecture. In 2007, Petra was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World due to its more than 800 carved structures.
- Research conducted by archaeologist Thomas Paradise revealed that Petra's downfall began with a large flood in the 5th century, leading to the city's decline from its golden age. The city's spiritual significance is highlighted by its connection to the Bible, with the mountain Jebel Haroon believed to be the burial place of Moses's brother Aaron, adding to Petra's historical and spiritual importance.
