In the heart of the mountains of southern Transjordan lies Petra, splendid capital of the Nabateans, a people of Arab origin who created in their lovely sandstone valleys a city unique in the ancient world. This remote desert stronghold with its extraordinary coloured rocks and carved façades has caught the imagination of travellers since it was first rediscovered in 1812. This lecture tells the story of the enigmatic Nabateans and explores their fine city with its temples, shrines, tombs, palaces and villas. 

Sue Rollin works as a tour guide and lecturer in India and the Middle East, and as a freelance interpreter for the European Union, United Nations and other international organisations. She was formerly staff interpreter at the European Commission, Brussels, and tutor and lecturer in Assyriology and Ancient History at the Universities of London and Cambridge. She has worked as an archaeologist. Publications: Blue Guide: Jordan and Istanbul: A Traveller's Guide.