Bosra

We headed south toward the Jordanian border crossing the Hauran plain to Bosra. The Roman amphitheater, made of basalt, is one of the most intact in the Roman world (with a rip-off entry fee of $8.00).

The town of Bosra itself was even more interesting as it was built in and among the ruins of the Roman city. Most of the houses have been made from stones of the ancient city. But, too many tourists have created the 8-year-old annoying touts that pester you throughout the town.

From Bosra, we drove to the town of Shabha on the ridge of the Jebel Arab range. Again, the city was built around the ruins of an old Roman town. Originally, Philip the Arab, the only Arab Roman emperor (AD 244-249), founded the town. Now, it’s home to the Druze, a rather obscure and strange branch of S’hia Islam.

Our last drive through the crazed Damascus traffic and it was time to return the car- no scratches, no dents- a miracle given the unique driving style of the Syrians.
Stopped for drinks at the Sheraton pub and dinner at their Italian restaurant.