Ep 5. Petra's Hidden Origins

In episode 5 of the first season of Lost Cities with Albert Lin, we follow Lin as he explores the ancient city of Petra in Jordan to uncover the origins of its culture and civilization. Petra is a city that was carved out of rose-colored sandstone cliffs, and it was once a bustling center of trade and commerce that attracted people from all over the world.

Lin begins his journey by examining the Nabataean scripts and inscriptions found throughout the city. The Nabataeans were a people who inhabited the city of Petra and the surrounding areas around 312 BC, and their writing system is one of the only clues left behind about their culture and way of life.

Lin then delves into the history of the Nabataeans, who were known for their ability to create sophisticated water management systems in an arid desert environment. Petra was located at a strategic point along the trade routes between the Red Sea and the Mediterranean, and the Nabataeans used their expertise in water management to control and maintain the flow of water to the city. Lin explores the intricate network of tunnels, canals, and cisterns that the Nabataeans built to transport water from distant sources and to store it for future use.

As he continues his exploration of Petra, Lin uncovers evidence of the city's multicultural past. He finds statues and other artifacts that suggest the city was a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, including Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian. Lin speculates that the Nabataeans may have developed a unique blend of these cultures, which contributed to their success as traders and merchants.

Lin also visits the Monastery, a large temple-like structure that is one of the most impressive buildings in Petra. The Monastery was built by the Nabataeans and is believed to have served as a center of religious and spiritual life in the city. Lin examines the intricate carvings and architecture of the Monastery and speculates about the spiritual practices and beliefs of the Nabataeans.

Finally, Lin concludes his journey by reflecting on the enduring legacy of Petra and the Nabataeans. He notes that despite the fact that the city was abandoned and forgotten for centuries, it has now become a symbol of cultural and architectural achievement, and it continues to inspire and fascinate people all over the world.

Overall, Petra's Hidden Origins is a fascinating exploration of a lost city and the culture and civilization that once inhabited it. Lin's inquisitive and thoughtful approach to the subject matter, combined with stunning footage of the city and its surroundings, make for a compelling and engaging episode of Lost Cities with Albert Lin.