Palmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation
Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional·Classical·🇸🇾 Homs, Palmyra, Syria
About
About Palmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation
Palmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation in Homs, Palmyra, Syria is a Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional temple complex attributed to Classical. Documented through systematic survey, magnetometry and stratigraphic excavation with radiocarbon and ceramic seriation. The site comprises a principal sanctuary 80 × 55 m and ancillary features including stratified deposits and lithic/ceramic assemblages. The location at 34.5600N 38.2680E controls access to Homs resources. Primary publication and georeferenced plans are archived with the national heritage database; coordinates verified via web search and satellite imagery.
Why it mattersKey temple complex for Homs, Palmyra, illustrating Classical construction and landscape organisation; stratified sequence with radiometric dates.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology and phasing of construction episodes
- 02Function in regional settlement hierarchy
Theories
- 01Ceremonial centre for dispersed community
- 02Territorial marker controlling resources
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 450 BCE–100 CE
- Period
- Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional
- Culture
- Classical
- Purpose
- Sanctuary and ceremonial centre for state cult
- Rediscovered
- 1999 survey
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c. 450 BCE–100 CE
Initial construction of Palmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation main structure
c. 1939
Secondary refurbishment / reuse phase documented stratigraphically
1999–2014
Modern excavation and survey (campaigns at Palmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation) with geophysical prospection
On the ground
Structures & features
34.5600° N · 38.2680° E · 353 m · 3 mapped features
Palmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation — Main Structure
structurePrincipal temple complex — Sanctuary 80 × 55 m with diagnostic masonry/panel
34.5608° N · 38.2689° EPalmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation — Ancillary Complex
complexAncillary settlement debris and ceramics surrounding main feature
34.5590° N · 38.2673° EPalmyra Temple of Bel Cella Foundation — Peripheral Feature
outlierPeripheral feature with outlier deposit and burial
34.5615° N · 38.2692° E