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c. 64 BCE–395 CE
Roman
Roman Syria was one of the empire's wealthiest provinces: caravan cities, aqueducts, theatres and roads that still shape the landscape.
Period: Classical · 330 BCE–395 CE
Major historical events
- 2nd century CEVerified historical fact
Peak monumental building at Palmyra, Bosra and Apamea.
- 273 CEVerified historical fact
Palmyra is sacked after Zenobia's revolt against Rome.
Architecture
Colonnaded streets, monumental arches, theatres, temples and Roman road paving.
Religion, culture and daily life
Latin and Greek administration over Aramaic-speaking populations; local deities in classical dress.
Trade
Palmyra taxed and protected the caravan trade between the Mediterranean and the Gulf.
Important rulers and figures
- Zenobia of PalmyraVerified historical fact
Third-century ruler of Palmyra; her revolt is documented by ancient sources.
Archaeological discoveries
- Palmyra's Great Colonnade
- Bosra's basalt theatre
Key places in Syria (32)
UNESCOHidden gem
Ancient Villages of Northern Syria
The Dead Cities
Saint Simeon Region · Aleppo