Palmyra

The jewel of the Syrian desert. Palmyra houses the remains of a once-great city, which prospered during from the second century BC, principally by virtue of its location. As an oasis standing between east and west, it became a principal trade route for caravans passing between three continents, and its success is reflected in the elegance of the remains.

What is left behind is extensive and ornate – from the Temple of Bel on the far side of the site to the main street flanked by soaring pillars from left to right, the ruins impress and delight, and deserve a couple of days of exploration.