Bible Archeology Discoveries

Search Finds

Select a Find

Category

Temple of the Winged Lions at Petra
Discovered: Petra, southern Jordan, north of Wadi Musa
From: (c. Early first century AD; used into the fourth century AD)

Find on Map Link to More

The Temple of the Winged Lions was a large Nabataean religious complex in Petra. Archaeologists named it for decorative column capitals featuring winged lions. Excavations revealed a sanctuary, ritual installations, sculpture, and nearby rooms associated with workshops and everyday activities.

The temple probably served the worship of a Nabataean goddess, often suggested to be al-Uzza, but her identification is not certain. The site illustrates how religion, craft production, and community life could be closely connected in Petra.

2 Corinthians 11:32 (mentions Aretas, a Nabataean king; does not refer to this temple).

Page 111 of 128

Notable Finds

Much of what is described in Bible text is lost to history, requiring readers to assume the historicity of the scriptures.

However, many of the places and events described in the Old and New Testaments are periodically corroborated by archeological finds.

Some finds simply help us to better understand things from the ancient world. However, others provide important evidence as to the truth of scripture regarding things about which there had previously been skepticism.

Note: Click any image on these pages to see larger photos.