The Urn Tomb

Similar to its adjacent tombs, this graceful monument is carved deeply into the cliff face at the foot of the Khubtha Ridge, and it is most likely dated to the first half of the first century AD. This tomb derives its name from the jar that crowns the pediment. It is also sometimes called "the Court" or "Al Mahkama" by the Bedouin community, which thought the underground vaults served as prisons and the building served as a courthouse. It is actually a Nabataean tomb. The tall façade is decorated with engaged columns between pilasters. It has three niches; the central one is close to a human bust. From the courtyard, two doorways open onto an interior large hall (18.95 x 17.15 m), which was remodeled with the carving of three apses. A Greek Byzantine inscription records that the hall, which was originally a royal tomb, was converted into a church by Bishop Jason in AD 447. A monumental staircase built over vaults gave easy access to the church.

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