Petra

What was it made from? 

Petra was primarily constructed by carving into the soft, rose-red sandstone cliffs that characterise the area. The city's buildings, including tombs, temples, and dwellings, were created by chiselling away at the natural rock formations. This method of construction was well-suited to the region's geology and allowed the Nabateans to create elaborate and intricate structures.

Properties of the Rock

• Composition: Nubian or Ajlun Sandstone is made up primarily of sand-sized grains of mineral, predominantly quartz, cemented together by minerals like silica, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide.

• Colour: The sandstone in Petra is famously known for its distinctive rose-red colour, caused by the presence of iron oxide (hematite) in the rock.

• Porosity: Sandstone is relatively porous, which means it can hold and transmit water. This property can influence the weathering and erosion patterns of the rock.

• Durability: While sandstone is relatively soft compared to some other types of stone, it is still a relatively durable material. However, over long periods, it can be eroded by natural forces like wind, water, and temperature changes.

• Workability: One of the reasons why the Nabateans chose this material for Petra was its relatively soft nature, which made it easier to carve. It could be worked using relatively simple tools.

• Layered Structure: Sandstone is often found in distinct layers, reflecting the deposition of sediment over time. This layering can be seen in the cliffs and formations of Petra.

• Grain Size: The size of the individual grains in the sandstone can vary, influencing its texture and appearance.

• Sedimentary Origin: Sandstone is a sedimentary rock, meaning it was formed from the accumulation and consolidation of mineral and organic particles in a natural environment.

• Formation: Nubian Sandstone, in particular, was formed during the Lower Cretaceous period, between 145 and 100 million years ago, in a desert-like environment.

How Those Properties Aided the Construction of Petra

The unique properties of the rose-red sandstone in Petra, such as its composition, porosity, durability, workability, layered structure, and sedimentary origin, were crucial in the construction of the city. The sandstone's visual appeal, ability to hold and transmit water, durability, and workability with simple tools allowed the Nabateans to carve structures. Its layered structure provided natural planes for carving, and its sedimentary origin resulted in distinct strata used in construction. These properties collectively facilitated the creation of Petra's impressive architectural features and contributed to its lasting legacy.