The Nabateans, ancient desert traders who ruled the region until around 300 A.D., had to deal with seasonal flooding and drought. The area around Wadi Musa, where the Nabateans resided, was attractive to them due to its winding canyons, high peaks and plateaus, and protected valleys. Unfortunately, these same features also make the area vulnerable to flooding today.
Archaeologists have spent decades investigating how the Nabateans managed water in the region. They discovered that Nabatean engineers developed an interlocking system of terraces and small dams to flood-proof ancient Petra. This complex system channeled water through ravines and canyons, slowed down rushing water that could lead to flooding, and directed it into storage ponds. Terraces were used to soak up water and provide space for crops.
However, after the collapse of the Nabatean kingdom, the water management system fell into disrepair. Even with the rediscovery and development of Petra as a tourist destination in the 20th century, the dams were largely overlooked. Plans are now being made by a National Geographic Society-funded effort called Preserving Legacies to revive these ancient dams as part of an initiative to help cultural heritage sites like Petra adapt to climate change. Community leaders are being consulted to determine the best ways to preserve these valuable sites for future generations.
In conclusion, research shows that water management was crucial for survival of ancient societies such as those of Nabateans in desert regions. The preservation of their legacy is vital for understanding our past and preparing for our future in terms of adapting to climate change’s impact on cultural heritage sites like Petra.