Petra--Jewel of Jordan
Certainly one of the highlights of our visit was the one day trip to the impressive Nabathean capital city of Petra. Petra, "lost" for many centuries, was rediscovered by the world in the early 1800's. The Nabatheans became very wealthy leading large camel caravans North and South. They built their capital in a remote, natural valley fortress. The entire city was carved into gorgeous pink sandstone mountains. Their society peaked from 400 B.C.E. until 100 C.E.
Visitors, both ancient and modern like us, approached Petra through an narrow stone valley lined by multi-level aqueducts.
After about a mile walk through this narrow passageway one comes to the "keyhole" and the first building to appear is the pink "Treasury." (Its true function is only conjecture.)
Adam and Amanda didn't find any money in the Treasury but maybe the building itself is the real treasure.
The five of us in front of the Treasury.
In later times the Romans added a colonaded "Cardo" to this city.
A bedouin woman spinning natural wool into yarn.
Hank with a Bedouin friend.
Its a very exciting moment when Adam finds a coin in the dirt dating from 100 B.C.E.
Thousands of ancient potery sherds were sticking out of the dirt.
Coloseum
You're right! This IS the temple in
"Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade."
And finally, as we leave, one more glance through the keyhole.