Factors Determining the Choice of the Construction Techniques in Petra, Jordan

Abstract

The purposes of this article are to study the types of construction techniques that the Nabataeans used to bring Petra's architecture to its peak, and to identify the underlying factors behind their choice of these techniques. To achieve these purposes, the focus will be on the geological setting of the site. Also presented are consideration of the classification of the buildings and analysis of architectural techniques used in the city. The results of the study reveal that the Nabataeans were influenced in the choice of their capital by its site, their outside contacts, and building materials. Their technical knowledge was refined to suit the properties of the locally available materials, most notably sandstones. This article also includes background on the historical context of the buildings and their structural stability. This record of materials and techniques are essential as preparatory procedures for a successful repair and when providing guidance for architects, surveyors, and craftsmen involved in the conservation at Petra structures.

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