Bosra

[caroline]

BOSRA

Mentioned in the lists of Tutmose III and in the letters of Al-Amarna (in the archives of the Pharaoh Ahkenhaton, 1334 B.C.), also referred to in the Bible, became one of the leading Nabatean cities (1st Cent.) before being made the capital of the Province of Arabia by its Roman conquerors (106 AD). As the seat of an archbishop, Bosra played an important role in the history of early Christianity as well as having links with the beginnings of Islam. The significance of the city as an important halt on the way to Mecca, and the prosperity that this city brought, lasted until the 17th century. In Bosra one can find the most extraordinary monuments in all the Middle East - the fortress-theater, recently and beautifully restored, where the best ballet, theater and folklore companies give performances every summer. This remarkable building is gradually bringing new life to Bosra. From the theater-fortress a narrow road with ancient paving stones leads into the decumanus, near a triple arch known as the Gate of Lantern. It was built in the 3rd Century, in honor of the Third Legion, garrisoned here at Bosra.