Ep 8. Lost Treasures of Petra

In this episode of Digging for the Truth, host Josh Bernstein embarks on an archaeological adventure to the ancient city of Petra, located in modern-day Jordan. Known as the "Rose City" for its pink sandstone cliffs, Petra was once a bustling metropolis along a major trading route in the Arabian Desert.

Bernstein and his team are on a mission to uncover some of Petra's greatest mysteries – its lost treasures. With the help of local experts, they explore the expansive site and begin to unravel the secrets of this long-lost civilization.

The episode begins with Bernstein exploring the ancient tombs of Petra, which were carved into the cliffs along the outskirts of the city. These tombs are famous for their intricate carvings and elaborate facades, which were once adorned with brightly-colored pigments. Bernstein notes that while the tombs have been looted many times over the centuries, there is still much to learn from them.

Next, Bernstein meets with a local expert who takes him on a tour of Petra's most famous building – the Treasury. This massive structure was carved directly into the pink sandstone cliff and features an intricate facade adorned with columns, statues, and other decorative elements. The Treasury is believed to have been a temple or a mausoleum, but no one knows for sure. Bernstein and his team examine the building closely, looking for clues that might reveal its purpose.

As they explore Petra further, Bernstein and his team come across several other impressive structures, including the Monastery and the Great Temple. These buildings are even more impressive than the Treasury, featuring larger-than-life statues, intricate carvings, and massive columns. The team marvels at the skill and precision of the ancient builders who created these structures by hand.

Eventually, Bernstein and his team make their way to a remote section of Petra where they believe they may have found a hidden treasure trove. With the help of local experts, they begin excavating a small area and quickly discover a cache of ancient artifacts. These include pottery, jewelry, and even a small statue of a goddess. The team is excited by their find and sets to work analyzing the artifacts to learn more about Petra's ancient people and their way of life.

Bernstein also takes some time to explore the modern-day city of Petra, which has grown up around the ancient ruins. He meets with local craftsmen who still use traditional techniques to create intricate carvings and artwork from local stone. He also learns about the challenges facing modern Petra, including environmental concerns and the need to balance tourism with preservation of the ancient ruins.

Throughout the episode, Bernstein provides fascinating insights into the history and culture of Petra's ancient people. He explains the importance of the city as a trading hub, its strategic location along the Silk Road, and the influence of various empires and religions on its development. He also discusses the challenges of excavating and preserving such an expansive archaeological site, which covers over 100 square miles.

Overall, Lost Treasures of Petra is a fascinating exploration of one of the world's most mysterious and awe-inspiring ancient cities. Bernstein and his team bring the ruins of Petra to life, revealing the secrets and treasures hidden within this enigmatic site.