Educational Media Reviews Online

Palmyra: Bride of the Desert is part of Chip Taylor's Lost Cities of the Ancient Worlds series. Though the other two, Petra and Carthage are better known, Palmyra, Syria's premiere attraction, is just as fascinating and historically significant. An ancient trading center, the city offered respite to desert caravans as far back as 2000 B.C. It garnered its wealth by leveling tariffs on those who traveled through its gates. Even the prostitutes were taxed. Palmyra reached its peak of wealth and power in the second century A.D. Great temples to the gods and goddesses were constructed. A spectacular theater, half arena, half-columned stage was built to showcase Greek plays, music, and a little blood letting. Like most ruins of historic significance, Palmyra has its Valley of the Tombs, whose tarred mummies, wall reliefs, and scripts tell much about the city's prominent families. All remain in remarkable condition. Palmyra's most illustrious citizen was its Queen Zenobia, a descendent of Cleopatra. When her husband, a Roman general, was assassinated, she took control of the armies. Much of the video chronicles her remarkable and far-reaching battles and conquests. Rome normally ignored warrior queens, but Zenobia was especially bold and successful. When Rome finally turned their attention to her and she fled, the city of Palmyra began its descent. A 10th century earthquake toppled most of the city, and the Ottomans built a huge castle there in case of war. Only the original figs and olives still thrive among the ruins. Palmyra: Bride of the Desert makes a fine addition to any library collection.