Looting and vandalism around a World Heritage Site: Documenting modern damage to archaeological heritage in Petra’s hinterland

A study conducted by the Brown University Petra Archaeological Project (BUPAP) reveals significant and ongoing looting and vandalism around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra, Jordan. Through intensive field surveys, feature documentation, and test excavations, researchers identified patterns of illegal excavation and defacement of archaeological heritage, both within and outside the Petra Archaeological Park. These activities often result in artifacts being sold to tourists, exacerbating the loss of cultural heritage. The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced monitoring and protection measures to safeguard this iconic site. This study provides critical documentation of these destructive practices over a three-year period, advocating for stronger local authority intervention based on empirical evidence.

Vella, C., Bocancea, E., Urban, T. M., Knodell, A. R., Tuttle, C. A., & Alcock, S. E. (2015). Looting and vandalism around a World Heritage Site: Documenting modern damage to archaeological heritage in Petra’s hinterland. Journal of Field Archaeology, 40(2), 221–235. https://doi.org/10.1179/0093469015z.000000000119