Submerged 2,000-Year-Old Temple Found in Italy | Wion Podcast

Summary

This podcast episode uncovers the fascinating discovery of a 2,000-year-old submerged temple off the Italian coast, linked to the ancient Nabatean civilization. Featured in 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,' the temple showcases inscribed marble slabs and altars, highlighting its historical significance as a sanctuary and trading hub. Built during the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan, it was later buried by volcanic activity. Researchers suggest that the decline of Nabatean trade and Roman control contributed to its abandonment. The episode invites listeners to engage with more captivating stories and share their thoughts.

Takeaways

• 🏛️ Archaeologists discovered a submerged 2,000-year-old temple off the Italian coast.
• 🎬 The temple was featured in the 1989 film *Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade*.
• 🌊 The ruins were found near modern-day Podoli, which was once a major harbor for trade.
• 🕌 The temple was built by the ancient Nabatean civilization.
• 📜 It contains inscribed marble slabs and altars, indicating its historical significance.
• 🔄 The temple served as a place of worship and a hub for trade and exchange.
• 👥 The presence of the Nabatean sanctuary shows the community's active role in trade activities.
• 🛡️ The site was dedicated to the deity Duara, important in Nabatean religion.
• 🌋 The ancient temple was eventually buried under layers of magma due to volcanic activity.
• 🏛️ The temple's architecture included Roman-style walls, highlighting cultural influences.

Q & A

What significant discovery was made by archaeologists off the Italian coast?

Archaeologists discovered the ruins of a submerged 2,000-year-old temple, believed to have been created by an ancient civilization.

Which Hollywood film featured the temple discovered in this episode?

The temple was featured in the 1989 film *Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade*.

What materials were found at the site of the temple?

The site contained inscribed marble slabs and ancient altars, which had likely remained undisturbed for millennia.

Who built the temple and where was it located?

The temple was built by the Nabateans and was located near the modern-day city of Podoli.

What role did the city of Podoli play in ancient times?

Podoli was a large harbor where merchants from around the world would come to trade goods.

What was the purpose of the temple according to researchers?

The temple served as a place of worship, a refuge for foreigners, and a center for business and trade.

What was the main deity associated with the temple?

The main deity associated with the temple was Duara, who was central to the ancient Nabatean religion.

What impact did the creation of the province of Arabia Petraea have on the temple?

The creation of the province imposed Roman authority and restricted the independence of the Nabateans, contributing to the decline of the temple's sanctuary.

How was the temple eventually covered and preserved until its discovery?

The temple was covered in layers of magma due to centuries of volcanic activity, which helped preserve it until it was rediscovered.

What inscription was found on the marble slabs of the temple?

The marble slabs featured a Latin inscription that read 'duari sakam', which means 'consecrated to Duara'.