Getting a closer view
Captured by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV, or drone), this image shows an overhead view of the large, rectangular stone platform recently detected at Petra, and the smaller rectangular structure it contained within its boundaries.
Read the full story about this unusual discovery.
Measurements and details
Detail of the massive stone platform and the smaller structure — offset to the platform's western side — with architectural details and measurements shown. The image was created as a composite using multiple photographs captured by drones.
Seen from above
Aerial image of the enormous stone platform, which measured about 184 feet by 161 feet (56 by 49 m). Petra's city center lies to the north of the structure, and an impressive “facade” — columns and stairway — were found on the side of the platform facing the east
On the ground
Christopher Tuttle, an archaeologist at Brown University and co-author of the article describing the find at Petra, is pictured standing at the southwest corner of the interior, smaller platform, looking north.
Read the full story about this unusual discovery.
Exposing the past
Detail of the west side of the small building showing the single, buried column drum in the foreground.
Flagstone floor
Archaeologists discovered exposed flagstones in the interior of the smaller platform; this view is facing north.
Ancient walkways
Archaeologist Christopher Tuttle, who co-authored the article describing the Petra platform, investigated the doorsill of the small building on the platform; this view is facing southwest.
