Petra
Find Out More About Petra
A Nomadic Beginning Creating an Oasis in the Desert Controlling Trade Routes A City Carved in Cliffs The Roman Empire Takes Charge Christianity Comes to Petra Timeline

Petra grew in the middle of a harsh, barren desert. So how did the ancient city maintain fertile crops, lush gardens, and even public pools for recreation?

The Nabataeans were experts at surviving in the desert because they knew how to collect and distribute water. An impressive system of rock-cut channels and underground water pipes carried water from permanent springs and seasonal streams.

The Nabataeans also developed a way to collect and store water in watertight holes or cisterns. Hidden underground, these cisterns kept water safe from both evaporation and enemies.
 

Rock-cut channels along the Siq were used to carry water. The Nabataeans used underground cisterns to collect and store water.
Petra's hyrdaulic system connected canals, cisterns, springs, and fountains throughout the city. (click to see map)