Biography
Published in 2009
After visiting Petra – home of his ancestors – for the first time in 1982, Jordanian chemist Talal Akasheh was surprised by the beauty of the site, but equally appalled at the damage that time and the elements had wrought on the extraordinary monuments.
Akasheh (born in 1947), a professor of physical chemistry at Jordan’s Hashemite University, has dedicated nearly three decades to protecting Petra from further deterioration. The GIS database system he developed to document all aspects of the site earned him a Rolex Award in 2008.
With the Award funding, he is expanding the database to include more features and monuments.
As a next step, Akasheh will complete a website as a tool for the Jordanian authorities, who can better manage the site, and academicians interested in Petra. He also intends to create a 3D documentation method as well as a non-destructive technique to study the salt content of the weathered monuments.
- Project Location
- Related Links
- Similar Projects
Anabel Ford
Establish archaeological site as a model for conservation
Adli Qudsi
Bring one of the world’s oldest cities back to life
- Other 2008 Laureates
- Contact Information
Dr Talal Akasheh
Hisham Hotel
Amman 11183
Jordan
PO Box: 5398Tel: + 962 796633088
takasheh@hotmail.com
