The Crumbling Wonder: A damage- and risk-assessment of sandstone monuments and natural features in the Petra Archaeological Park (Jordan)

Petra, famous for its monumental archaeology, is in danger: it is ‘crumbling’. This fragile sandstone wonder has fallen victim to degradation. This research sheds light on the deterioration of valuable archaeology in the Petra Archaeological Park. It is aimed to clarify the factors contributing to this decay and the need for active and continuous protection. Additionally, it highlights specific monuments and natural features within the archaeological park which require a ention regarding their deterioration and safety-risks. Protecting Petra equally means the safeguarding of perishable data. Through reviewing Petra’s geo-archaeological data, applying safety regulations, and conducting extensive risk- and damage-assessments, its archaeology and safety can be maintained