Temple of Bel in Palmyra

The Temple of Bel is the largest building in Palmyra. It has been partially restored today. Its building, as evidenced by the inscription preserved on its ruins, was erected in 32 AD. The temple of Bel is a kind of hybrid of Eastern and ancient architecture: the plan of the building is made in the traditions of temples of the Middle East, and its facades are decorated in the spirit of ancient architecture, on the model of Greek and Roman temples. The Temple of Bel is located in the center of the vast open courtyard of the sanctuary.

The ruins of the temple rise in the middle of an almost square courtyard surrounded by colonnades. Along with elements of the Greco-Roman architectural style, the influence of Eastern traditions is felt in its appearance: Roman architectural forms are combined with Eastern splendor and grandeur. As a fortress against the Crusaders, the building was badly damaged.

The sanctuary was located on a high terrace of 305x210 meters and was surrounded by walls of well-fitted stone blocks. The walls were decorated with small columns. The courtyard was surrounded on all sides by covered porticoes, supported by two rows of columns. On the west side of the courtyard were the main gate, decorated with propyleas and sculptures Through three doors you could get inside the courtyard.

Today, the remains of carved stone slabs and large chunks of broken columns lie in disarray around the ruins of the temple. The interior of the temple of Bela is a single large hall, not separated by any colonnades or walls.