Ep 1. The Hidden City of Petra

In the first episode of season 3 of Ancient Mysteries, viewers are taken on an exploration of the ancient city of Petra, also known as the "Rose City." Located in present-day Jordan, Petra was once a bustling hub of trade and commerce during the 1st century BC to the 2nd century AD. However, by the 5th century AD, the city was abandoned and forgotten until it was rediscovered in the early 19th century.

The episode begins with a brief history of Petra and its rise as a center of caravan trade in the ancient world. Viewers are shown the impressive facade of the Treasury, one of Petra's most famous monuments, carved into a towering rock face. The episode then delves into the mystery of how such an impressive city was built in such a remote location, surrounded by harsh desert terrain.

Experts in archaeology and history provide theories about how the Nabataean people, who built Petra, were able to construct such impressive structures using primitive tools and without the use of modern technology. Some suggest that the Nabataeans may have utilized aqueducts and cisterns to collect and distribute water throughout the city, while others argue that the Nabataean's knowledge of hydraulic engineering allowed them to build sophisticated irrigation systems.

The episode also explores the mystery of how the Nabataeans were able to build a city that was virtually invisible from the outside. Petra's most impressive structures, including the Treasury and the Monastery, were built into towering rock faces, making them difficult to see from a distance. Experts speculate that the Nabataeans may have deliberately hidden the city to protect it from invaders and maintain control over the valuable trade routes.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are taken on a tour of some of Petra's most impressive structures, including the Roman amphitheater, the Siq (narrow gorge) that leads to the Treasury, and the Monastery, which sits atop a steep cliff face. The Monastery is particularly intriguing because of its location so far from the center of the city. Experts suggest that it may have been a place of pilgrimage or used as a lookout for approaching enemies.

Throughout the episode, viewers are also introduced to some of the fascinating individuals who have played a role in the rediscovery and preservation of Petra. This includes Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, a Swiss explorer who was the first European to visit Petra in over a thousand years, and Marguerite van Geldermalsen, a New Zealand woman who fell in love with a Bedouin man and lived in Petra for over 30 years.

In conclusion, The Hidden City of Petra is a fascinating exploration of one of the world's most impressive ancient cities. Viewers are not only treated to breathtaking views of Petra's monuments and structures, but they also gain insight into the mystery and history of how this remarkable city was built. The episode is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history, archaeology, or the mysteries of the past.