How did the people of ancient Petra collect water?

The people of ancient Petra collected water through a sophisticated system of cisterns, channels, and dams that captured and stored rainwater. They built intricate water harvesting systems, including rock-cut cisterns and aqueducts, to direct water from surrounding mountains into the city. This allowed them to efficiently manage their water supply in the arid desert environment, ensuring a stable source for drinking and agricultural use. Their engineering prowess helped sustain the city’s population and trade activities for centuries.