Site of Palmyra
Unesco World Heritage

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Site of Palmyra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Syria

The Site of Palmyra, located in the Province of Homs in Syria, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical and cultural significance. This ancient city, also known as Tadmur, was once a prosperous trading hub and a crossroads between the Roman and Parthian empires. Its unique blend of Greco-Roman and Persian influences, combined with its well-preserved ruins, make it a remarkable testament to the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region.

History

The history of Palmyra dates back to the 2nd millennium BCE when it was a small oasis settlement. However, it was during the 1st and 2nd centuries CE that Palmyra reached its zenith as a wealthy and influential city. Under the rule of Queen Zenobia, Palmyra briefly became an independent kingdom and a major power in the region.

Palmyra's strategic location along the Silk Road made it a vital center for trade, connecting the Roman Empire with the East. The city flourished economically, and its residents amassed great wealth, which they used to construct grand temples, colonnaded streets, and elaborate tombs.

However, Palmyra's prosperity was short-lived. In 273 CE, the Roman Emperor Aurelian recaptured the city, and it gradually declined in importance. Over the centuries, Palmyra was conquered and occupied by various empires, including the Byzantines, Arabs, and Ottomans. Despite these changes in power, the city's ruins remained remarkably intact.

Current State

Tragically, the Site of Palmyra has suffered significant damage and destruction in recent years due to the ongoing conflict in Syria. In 2015, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) seized control of Palmyra and carried out a campaign of destruction, targeting its ancient monuments and artifacts.

ISIL militants deliberately targeted several iconic structures, including the Temple of Bel, the Arch of Triumph, and the Temple of Baalshamin. These acts of cultural vandalism shocked the world and led to widespread condemnation. The destruction of Palmyra's heritage was not only a loss for Syria but for all of humanity.

Since the liberation of Palmyra from ISIL in 2016, efforts have been made to assess and restore the damaged structures. UNESCO, along with international partners, has been actively involved in documenting the destruction and planning for the site's recovery.

Despite the damage inflicted, the Site of Palmyra still retains its outstanding universal value. The remaining ruins, such as the Great Colonnade, the Temple of Nabu, and the Roman Theater, continue to showcase the city's architectural and artistic achievements.

Preserving and safeguarding the Site of Palmyra is of utmost importance to ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from this remarkable ancient city. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that Syria and the world have lost, and the urgent need to protect and preserve our shared human history.

Hotels and places to stay

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DEDEMAN PALMYRA

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
Damascus Road
00963 Palmyra/Tadmur
Syria

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Videos from the area

Syrien - Palmyra

Published: May 18, 2010
Length: 40:22 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Lars Hoffmann

Das antike Palmyra gehört zu den bedeutesten Ausgrabungsstätten Syriens und steht auf der Liste des UNESCO-Weltkulturerbes. Die Siedlung, Tempel und Gräber decken weitläufiges Areal ab....

Syria - Palmira 3 .mpg

Published: June 03, 2010
Length: 53:22 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Mircea Costiniuc

Travel.

Balade Moto La Palmyre Samedi 16 Aout 2014

Published: August 17, 2014
Length: 56:54 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Patrick Larochelle

Zoo de La Palmyre

Published: July 08, 2014
Length: 33:47 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: jean-gabriel arboireau

Spectacle des otaries en juillet 2012.

Palmyre une route et installation des armements lourds dans la zone archéologiqueتدمر

Published: August 17, 2014
Length: 32:51 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Protect Syrian Archaeology

تدمر تمركز الاليات العسكرية ضمن الحرم الاثري وشق طريق ترابي Association for the Protection of Syrian Archaeology - Website : http://www.apsa2011.c...

Palmyre : dégâts dans la zone du rempart nord تدمر : اثار الدمار في منطقة السور الشمالي

Published: August 17, 2014
Length: 35:57 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Protect Syrian Archaeology

Association for the Protection of Syrian Archaeology - Website : http://www.apsa2011.com جمعية حماية الآثار السورية https://www.facebook.com/apsa2011.

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