Phase IX Earthquake
In Phase IX the Great Temple at
Petra experienced catastrophic destruction, likely
associated with one of the
363 CE Cyril Quakes. According to
Joukowsky (2009) and
Joukowsky (2007:33–35), the earthquake
brought about the cave-in of the
Propylaeum and the Lower
Temenos
cryptoportici, with their arches
tumbling onto the floors.
In the Lower Temenos, the West Triple
Colonnade collapsed , its column
drums crashing onto and damaging the Hexagonal
Pavement. Repeated rows of deep
horizontal indentations and shattered
hexagonal
flagstones mark the impact of the
falling drums. Architectural fragments mixed
with fill enveloped the area.
The Upper Temenos also suffered major structural
failures. The West Precinct Wall and the
Cistern-Reservoir collapsed, and
fluvial and wash-down deposits accumulated
over the ruins. In their lower levels, remains of two human bodies were found,
apparently caught in the sudden disaster. The
West Walkway wall was destroyed, as were
parts of the Residential Quarter and the
Cistern-Reservoir. In the Shrine Room,
abandonment was followed by structural
collapse and progressive debris accumulation.
The temple itself was also severely affected. The
west Porch columns plummeted onto the
Forecourt, pulverizing the hexagonal pavement,
while other architectural elements crashed
into both the Upper and Lower Temenos. The
distribution of fallen columns, dented
pavements, collapsed vaults, and displaced
walls across the Propylaeum, Temenos
precincts, Cryptoporticus, Baths, and Temple
complex reflects a single high-energy seismic
event.
Although the
Roman-Byzantine Baths continued in
use after the earthquake, doorways
were narrowed or closed and some rooms were
abandoned, suggesting degradation from the original
Nabataean bath.