A Nabataean Sundial from Madā'in ṣāliḥ

A significant Nabataean sundial has been identified at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra (al-Hijr / Madā'in Ṣāliḥ), offering new insights into ancient timekeeping practices. The discovery underscores the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Nabataeans, who integrated precise solar measurements into their architectural and religious structures. Additionally, a similar sundial was noted on a Nabataean altar from Ḍumayr near Damascus, suggesting regional consistency in such designs. While the study focuses primarily on the Hegra sundial, its broader implications highlight the cultural and technological sophistication of this ancient civilization.

Healey, J. (2023). A Nabataean Sundial from Madā’in ṣāliḥ. Law and Religion between Petra and Edessa, VI–331. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003420675-6