The project intended to complete the general archaeological survey of Petra conducted by L. Nehme, in order to characterize the occupation of Petra's hinterland from the Edomite to the late Islamic times.
Was the area used to supply, at least in the form of a complementary income, the inhabitants of the city? In what manner did it contribute to the local economy? Was it possible to trace the different thoroughfares to the capital through the village of Gaia or other east-west paths? Does the traditional image of caravans travelling to Petra fit with the natural environment? What was the chronology of occupation ? Can we determine the balance between agricultural activities and the potential defensive aspects of the area?