Palmyra Travel Guide

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Trek Zone

City • Unesco

Facts and practical information

Palmyra, located in the Hims region of Syria, is a city that boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Known as the "Bride of the Desert," this captivating destination offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and a glimpse into the past.

One of the main attractions in Palmyra is the majestic Palmyra Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These ruins showcase the grandeur of the ancient city, with towering colonnades, intricately carved archways, and well-preserved temples. Walking through this archaeological wonder, visitors can immerse themselves in the history and marvel at the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Palmyrenes.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the city's past, a visit to the Palmyra Museum is a must. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and sculptures that provide insights into the daily life, religion, and art of the ancient Palmyrenes. From intricately decorated pottery to stunning statues, the museum offers a fascinating journey through time.

Beyond its historical significance, Palmyra also offers breathtaking natural landscapes. The nearby Palmyra Oasis, nestled in the heart of the Syrian Desert, is a true oasis of tranquility. Visitors can explore the palm groves, take a leisurely stroll along the serene lake, or simply relax amidst the picturesque surroundings. The oasis also offers stunning sunset views, creating a magical atmosphere that is perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Palmyra is also a gateway to other nearby attractions, such as the breathtaking Krak des Chevaliers. This medieval fortress, located just a short drive away, is a testament to the region's turbulent past. With its imposing walls, towers, and courtyards, the Krak des Chevaliers is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

In addition to its historical and natural wonders, Palmyra also offers a taste of traditional Syrian cuisine. Visitors can indulge in delicious local dishes, such as kebabs, falafel, and mouthwatering sweets. The city's vibrant markets are a treat for the senses, with colorful spices, fragrant herbs, and traditional handicrafts on display.

Local name: تدمر Unesco: from 1980Area: 64.87 mi²Elevation: 1358 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 34°33'14"N, 38°16'13"E

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HimsSyria

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Palmyra Top Attractions

Palmyra Attractions - What to See and Explore

Palmyra offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Roman Theatre at Palmyra, Valley of the Tombs, Palmyra Castle, Temple of Bel. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Archaeological site
Roman Theatre at Palmyra
The Roman Theatre at Palmyra is a historical gem nestled in the ancient city of Palmyra, Syria. This majestic structure, built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, is a testament to the city's rich cultural past and significance along the Silk...
Cemetery
Valley of the Tombs
Nestled in the heart of the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria, the Valley of the Tombs stands as a timeless testament to the grandeur of a civilization long past. This remarkable necropolis, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique glimpse into the burial...
Forts and castles
Palmyra Castle
Palmyra Castle, also known as Fakhr-al-Din al-Ma'ani Castle or Tadmur Castle, is a castle overlooking Palmyra in the province of Homs, Syria.

Temple
Temple of Bel
The Temple of Bel, sometimes also referred to as the "Temple of Baal", was an ancient temple located in Palmyra, Syria. The temple, consecrated to the Mesopotamian god Bel, worshipped at Palmyra in triad with the lunar god Aglibol and the sun god Yarhibol, formed the center of religious life in Palmyra and was dedicated in AD 32.
Forts and castles
Camp of Diocletian
The Camp of Diocletian was a Roman military complex, or castra, built in the ancient city of Palmyra in the Syrian Desert. The complex was built under the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the late third-century CE and served as the military headquarters for the Legio I Illyricorum.
Monuments and statues
Lion of Al-lāt
The Lion of Al-lāt is an ancient statue that adorned the Temple of Al-Lat in Palmyra, Syria. On 27 June 2015, it was severely damaged by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant after it had captured Palmyra.
Street
Great Colonnade at Palmyra
The Great Colonnade at Palmyra was the main colonnaded avenue in the ancient city of Palmyra in the Syrian Desert. The colonnade was built in several stages during the second and third century CE and stretched for more than a kilometer.
Arch
Monumental Arch of Palmyra
The Monumental Arch, also called the Arch of Triumph or the Arch of Septimius Severus, was a Roman ornamental archway in Palmyra, Syria. It was built in the 3rd century during the reign of emperor Septimius Severus. Its ruins later became one of the main attractions of Palmyra until it was officially destroyed by the ISIS in 2015.
Ruins
Baalshamin
Baalshamin, also called Baal Shamem and Baal Shamaim, was a Northwest Semitic god and a title applied to different gods at different places or times in ancient Middle Eastern inscriptions, especially in Canaan/Phoenicia and Syria. The title was most often applied to Hadad, who is also often titled just Ba‘al.