Palmyra

History of Palmyra goes back to the pre-Christian period. It was always known to be a city of great wealth and prosperity. The earliest occupants were the nomadic Arabs, who are mentioned in various books of the Hebrew Old Testament of the Talbut. Later on, the city came under the eyes of the Greco-Roman kings. However, the city came under the Selecuids, when they took control of Syria in 323 BC. Roman attempts to conquer and rule the city were repelled on a number of occasions. In 634, the city came under Islamic rule.

Most of the attractions of Palmyra are of a historic and an archaeological nature. Some of the main attractions of the city are:

• The Temple of Ba’al: Considered to be the most magnificent temple construction of the first century AD, the temple is marked by its impressive double colonnaded portico, graced with columns constructed in the Corinthian style. The west portico was made later, and is believed to have been constructed during the 2nd century AD
• Decamanus: this magnificent colonnade starts from the temple and continues to the main entrance to the city. It is noted for its great monumental arch.
• The Theater: This magnificent construction had 12 rows of seating, only 9 of which continue to survive. This was the place for discussion of important state and social matters. The nobility usually met here. The structure is wooden and is believed to date back to the 1st century AD. A large Agora is located nearby.
• Tetrapylon: A platform with four sets each of four pillars was built by the Governor of Syria, Sosianus Hierocles. A temple devoted to the Syrian goddess of Allat is located nearby.

Palmyra receives a large number of visitors every year. As a result, many hotels belonging to various budget categories are found in this city. Some of the most popular hotels are Villa Palmyra, Sands, Heliopolis and Tetrapylon.