classicalmonuments:Funerary Temple (tomb number 86)Palmyra (Tadmor), Syria2nd century - 3rd century
classicalmonuments:Funerary Temple (tomb number 86)Palmyra (Tadmor), Syria2nd century - 3rd century CELocated in the northwestern periphery of the ancient city of Palmyra , at the end of the main colonnaded street, is a remarkable funerary temple. Surprisingly little is known about this temple tomb, as no inscriptions have been discovered, but it is believed to date from the late second or early third century. This particular style of tomb represents the later stages of Palmyrene funerary architecture, following the earlier underground and tower tombs. Being the only tomb found within the city walls, the shrine may have been connected to the royal family. It is often referred to as tomb number 86, based on archaeologist Michal Gawlikowski’s catalogue.The building features a well-preserved portico supported by six columns with Corinthian capitals. The portico preceded a large room with steps leading to burial chambers located underneath. The southwest and northwest walls of the funerary temple were reconstructed during modern restorations, while the portico has survived throughout the centuries. Around the portico are elaborate stone carved decorations including grapevines and floral patterns. The stunning location with the mountaintop Qalaat Shirkuh as a backdrop makes this monument particularly picturesque.Sources: 1, 2, 3 -- source link