Rising to the Challenge: Reviving the Ancient Water Management System of the Nabateans

The Nabateans, ancient desert traders who ruled the region until around 300 A.D., had to deal with seasonal flooding and drought. Despite the challenges, 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. However, these same features also make the area vulnerable to flooding today.

For decades, archaeologists have been investigating how the Nabateans managed water in the region. Their research has uncovered an interlocking system of terraces and small dams that were used 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.

Unfortunately, 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. However, plans to revive the ancient dams are now part of a National Geographic Society-funded effort called Preserving Legacies. This project aims to help cultural heritage sites like Petra adapt to climate change by working with communities to protect their important sites. Local climate models are being developed, and community leaders are being consulted to determine the best ways to preserve these valuable sites for the future.

The Nabateans were skilled engineers who developed an intricate system of terraces and small dams that allowed them to control water in their environment. Their ingenious methods have been studied for years by archaeologists who have been able to piece together how they managed water during times of flooding and drought.

Their interlocking system of terraces and small dams allowed them to channel water through ravines and canyons while slowing down rushing water that could lead to flooding. This complex system directed water into storage ponds where it could be used for irrigation or stored for later use.

Terraces were also used by Nabatean engineers as a way to soak up excess moisture from heavy rains or floodwaters while providing space for crops at higher elevations.

Although this ancient engineering marvel fell into disrepair after the collapse of the Nabatean kingdom over two centuries ago, recent efforts are being made to revive it as part of a National Geographic Society-funded project called Preserving Legacies.

This project aims not only