The Ancient City of Bosra, Syria
Records of the ancient city of Bosra in Syria date back to the 14th century BC. In 106, the city was incorporated into the Roman Empire and new structures were added to the city when it came under Roman rule. Most notabe in the 2nd century was the addition of a Roman theater which remained remarkably well persevered over the centuries and was fortified sometime between 481 and 1251.
In 634, the Arabs entered the city as part of Islamic expansion. With over 2,500 years of remarkably preserved history, Bosra was named a world heritage site. Perhaps even more remarkable is that even after 2,000 years the ancient buildings and houses are still used as homes today.
Bosra was also home to the Al-Omari Mosque which is one of the oldest surviving mosques in Islamic history dating back to the 7th century. The Cathedral of Bosra is also a marvelous exhibit of early Christian architecture. Every bit of the city is an open-air museum with evidence of centuries of different peoples and civilizations taking root in the ancient buildings.
The civil war in Syria has taken its toll on the city. Since the city’s ancient stone dwellings continue to act as homes there is little distinction between the historical site and residences. Reports from those near the city claim that the mosque and the theater have been damaged by shelling. There is video evidence of some of the homes in city with bomb and fire damage. Another video makes reference to tanks destroying the ancient city. Other reports reference illegal constructions and threats against the historical buildings. Efforts continue to try and convince both sides to do what it takes to save Bosra but it is unclear how much damage has been done and how much will be done before the war is over.