Can Petra Take the Lead in Addressing Climate Change for Historic Sites Worldwide?

Research has shown that the Nabateans, who were desert traders that ruled the region until around 300 A.D., had to deal with seasonal flooding and drought. Their ability to trade luxury goods between the Roman Empire and their neighbors to the east was key to their success. The features that made the area around Wadi Musa attractive for the Nabateans are the same features that make it vulnerable to flooding today, such as winding canyons, high peaks and plateaus, and protected valleys.

Archaeologists have spent decades studying how the Nabateans managed water in the region. They found that Nabatean engineers developed an intricate system of terraces and small dams to flood-proof ancient Petra. This system channeled water through ravines and canyons, with dams slowing the rushing water and channeling it into storage ponds. Terraces also helped soak up water and provided space for crops.

After the collapse of the Nabatean kingdom, the water management system fell into disrepair. Even when Petra was rediscovered in the 20th century and developed as a tourist destination, the dams were overlooked. However, efforts are now being made to revive and repair these ancient water management systems in Petra and other cultural heritage sites around the world to help them adapt to climate change.

The Preserving Legacies project, funded by the National Geographic Society, aims to help communities protect their heritage sites from the impacts of climate change. Led by geographer and National Geographic Explorer Victoria Herrmann, the project involves building local climate models and working with community leaders to determine the best ways to preserve these important cultural sites for future generations. By reviving and maintaining ancient water management systems, like those used by the Nabateans, these sites can better withstand the challenges of a changing climate.