'Could this be the Holy Grail?': Chalice and 12 skeletons under Petra ignite wild theories about Christianity’s greatest mystery
Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Credit: Discovery’s Expedition Unknown
Grail Found?
Archaeologists have unearthed a 2,000-year-old chalice beneath Petra’s Al Khazneh, fueling intrigue about its possible connection to the legendary "Holy Grail."
Credit: Discovery’s Expedition Unknown
Hidden Secrets
A newly discovered tomb under Petra’s iconic Treasury holds 12 well-preserved skeletons, revealing long-hidden details of Nabataean society.
Credit: Discovery’s Expedition Unknown
Elite Burials
The individuals buried here may have been Nabataean elites, with their resting place near The Treasury suggesting a status of significant importance.
Rare Artifacts
Bronze, iron, and ceramic items were uncovered alongside the remains, showcasing the sophisticated craftsmanship of the ancient Nabataeans.
Credit: Discovery’s Expedition Unknown
Preserved Remains
According to Dr. Pearce Paul Creasman, executive director of the American Center of Research, the intact skeletons offer a rare look into the lives of these ancient people, including their health and diet.
Trading Hub
Petra was once a major trade center linking the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean, home to over 20,000 people, making it a bustling city in an arid landscape.
Unexplored Depths
Despite over two centuries of archaeological work, Petra continues to surprise. This find near The Treasury highlights how much remains hidden.
Significant Discovery
“Even in front of one of the world’s most famous buildings, there are still huge discoveries to be made,” Dr. Creasman emphasized, hinting at more to come.
Art or Life?
Josh Gates, host of Expedition Unknown, marveled at how the chalice mirrors the one from Indiana Jones, describing the moment as history imitating art.
Future Digs
Inspired by this find, the excavation team plans further exploration at Petra, eager to uncover more about the mysterious Nabataean civilization.