Naveed Ahmad

Another remarkable archaeological discovery in #Syria. Recent heavy rains in the Eastern region suddenly exposed a stone-paved surface in Sukhnah desert (E. #Homs), suggesting the remains of an ancient road. Based on the available evidence, 2 types of stones can be distinguished: very smooth, regular slabs - which could also be mistaken for a building's courtyard - and more irregular stones that could indicate later modifications/additions. The smoother paving is certainly consistent with Roman roads found in other parts of Syria. The site is also particularly interesting because it's located close to Qasr Hayr Sharqi, a fortified Umayyad complex featuring 2 palaces with their enclosures, as well as a bathhouse & gardens - in middle of the desert. An aqueduct supplied the complex with water from springs in the Kawm oasis. One possibility is that this Roman road remained in use during the Umayyad period, serving as an access route to the palatial complex. This wouldn't be unusual: structures built before the Islamic period were often reused for centuries. While History often presents the Islamic conquest of Syria as a clear break, archaeology frequently reveals a much greater degree of continuity, with earlier infrastructure & buildings remaining in use long after. Fact few hours of heavy rain could wash away 30 cm of sand and expose such a structure gives you an idea of how much of Syria's ancient heritage still remains buried - just waiting to be discovered.