Nabatean PetraThe oldest sections of Petra were established around the 6th century BC as the capital city of the Nabateans, who were able to prosper for many years due to their ability to control the flow of water -- avoiding flash floods, and collecting water for storage during dry periods. Their tomb design is fairly simple, with columns carved into the sandstone, and usually topped with a frieze or the stair-step pylons. Later tombs also show influence of Roman designs above the tomb entrances. |