|
An
exedra is a large niche or recess, usually with a bench or seats
and usually of semicircular or rectangular plan. It may be roofed or not.
Adjacent to the West
Exedra was found a capital decorated with elephant-heads, which is quite
unique to Petra, and now serves as our 'logo' of sorts. As well, thousands
of architectural fragments were found, in addition to many other finds:
coins, lamps, Roman glass, and ceramics which included figurines, Nabataean
bowls, small cups, and juglets. Clearly, the West Exedra was among the
most important structures in the Great Temple Precinct.
Like its twin, the
East Exedra, the West Exedra was buttressed and niched, and it possesses
twin columns located at its entrance. The West Exedra wall appears to
have been constructed in the traditional Nabataean style with large well-fitted,
diagonally dressed ashlars. It shows multiple reconstruction and reuse
phases, which do not seem to be evident in the East Exedra.
|
The West
Exedra, 1996 aerial view, facing SW. |
Adjacent to the West
Exedra and linking the Lower Temenos to the Upper Temenos and the Temple
Forecourt are the remains of a lateral West Stairway composed of 12 steps
with limestone treads. Overall the West Staircase measures approximately
10m in length by 0.60m in width. |
|
|