Life in a Cave in Petra with the Bdoul: 1981-1986

Judith McKenzie, an archaeologist, lived in a cave in Petra, Jordan, from 1981 to 1986 to survey and measure architectural mouldings on the rock-cut monuments. This memoir is a record of life in a cave at Petra before the arrival of modern-day tourism, and observations are made on the ways in which the Bdoul have adapted to their new environment. It also considers the ramifications of the expansion of the tourist-industry at Petra in the 21st century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Manar Al-Athar

From 1981 until 1986, archaeologist Judith McKenzie, then a graduate student at the University of Sydney, embarked on a remarkable journey to the ancient site of Petra in Jordan. For extended periods, she lived in a cave within the site, conducting extensive surveys and meticulously measuring architectural moldings on the rock-cut monuments. This period marked a critical juncture in the history of Petra, a place where the local inhabitants, known as the Bdoul, had thrived for centuries. However, a significant change was underway. In 1985, the Bdoul began a relocation to the nearby village of Umm Sayhoun, as directed by the Jordanian government.

This firsthand account of life in a cave at Petra, based on Judith's diaries she kept during her time among the Bdoul, holds immense importance as a record of a lifestyle that has largely vanished. As she writes in her introduction: "I spent so much time socializing with the Bdoul, I came to observe many aspects of Bdoul life in a series of visits over three main field seasons. As women, we had access to the world of young girls and women, which men from outside did not, while we were also sometimes treated as honorary men." This memoir thus serves as a poignant reminder of life at Petra before the advent of modern-day tourism at the site.

But this book goes beyond being a memoir. It also offers insightful observations on the ways in which the Bdoul have adapted to their new environment. By comparing photographs taken forty years ago with more recent images, the book documents the changes that have taken place. It explores the ramifications of the expansion of the tourist-industry at Petra in the 21st century, raising important questions about the impact of such developments on the site and its inhabitants.

Life in a Cave in Petra with the Bdoul: 1981-1986 is a vital and indispensable volume on the archaeology and history of one of the world's most renowned ancient sites. It provides a unique perspective on a period of transition and change, shedding light on the lives of the Bdoul and the challenges they faced as they adapted to a new way of life. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Judith McKenzie has crafted a masterpiece that not only enriches our understanding of Petra but also offers valuable insights into the broader cultural and historical context of the region. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or the wonders of the world.

Weight: 1068g
Dimension: 227 x 293 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780995494664