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Two thousand years ago, an ancient city called Petra
thrived deep in the desert of Nabataean kingdom. |
Petra was
founded along the ancient trade routes between Arabia, Egypt, and the
Mediterranean Sea. As a center for trade, the capital became very wealthy
and powerful. The
busy
city was bustling with life, full of lush gardens, ornate houses, and
markets loaded with exotic goods from India, Arabia, and Egypt. |
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Petra flourished for centuries, even after it was taken
over by the Roman Empire in A.D. 106. Eventually, Rome moved the center of trade away from Petra and the city's
importance slowly faded. Over time, the city that was once a vibrant and vital capital was abandoned and fell into ruins.
For over 500 years, the city was forgotten, known only to local people.
In the 1800s, western explorers rediscovered Petra. Today, it is one
of the world's most famous ancient sites. Still, only 5 percent of
the city has
been uncovered, and many mysteries remain. |
  
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