Global Treasures: Bosra

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1237

UPC: 879061008368

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Around 150 kilometres south of the Syrian capital of Damascus, and located amid the fertile Nuqra Plains, lie the ruins of Bosra. The rural atmosphere of the surrounding landscape can also be felt within the ancient city, as sheep and goats graze between the ruins that hark back to various epochs.

The Bahira Basilica is a legendary place. According to legend, it was here that the monk Sergius introduced the prophet Mohammed to Christianity and described to him his divine mission.

Both architectural and historical examples of the Roman Empire, such as the Southern Thermes, still cover large areas of the ancient city. The well-preserved remains of Bosra's 2nd-century Well House, the Nymphäum, still provide a good insight into the fine setting given to it by the Romans.

A 900-metre-long street was once the main axis of the city that, at its zenith, had around 80,000 inhabitants. Today, the ancient metropolis has a population of around 1000, and they earn their living from tourism, agriculture and livestock.

Its unique combination of numerous historic and cultural epochs continues to make this Syrian city a most worthwhile and fascinating destination.