The Temple of Bel at Palmyra
In 2015, ISIS terrorists destroyed the Temples of Bel and Baalshemin in the Syrian desert city of Palmyra, temples which had remained in pristine condition since their city's glory days in the 3rd century.
Back then, under the capable leadership of its rulers Odenaethus and the "Warrior Queen" Zenobia, Palmyra rose from wealthy caravan town to leader of the Eastern Mediterranean, taking advantage of the chaos of the Roman Crisis of the Third Century. So. Many. Emperors. So. Much. Chaos.
Scott Chesworth from the Ancient World podcast returns to finish his tale of Roman Syria, discussing how Palmyra challenged two empires, and how they very nearly pulled it off.
Also, listener David Adam recounts his trip to Palmyra before the temples were destroyed; you'll appreciate how he brings the humanity of modern Syrians into the story.
The destruction of Palmyra and of Syria has been a great human catastrophe, and by acknowledging and remembering lost Palmyra, we might hope to prevent the next one.
Also, there are cookies! Date-filled cookies, in honor of the date palms that gave Palmyra its name.
Below are David Adam's photos from his travels to Palmyra:
Syrian flatbread "pizzas" being cooked
Columns being repurposed for the walls of the fortress
The view from the citadel at sunset
The Syrian family Dave met among the ruins
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the Temples of Bel and Baalshemin Top Free Games by ISIS demonstrates the devastating consequences of modern conflict for humanity’s shared cultural heritage. At the same time, the account of David Adam’s visit emphasizes that Palmyra was not merely a collection of ancient ruins—it was also a living place connected to the people and communities of modern Syria.
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I found the discussion of the Temple of Bel at Palmyra fascinating, especially the way history and ancient architecture come together. After reading stories like this, I often play Meccha Chameleon Game which is a fun browser game for a relaxing break.
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