Exclusive Edition - The Ultimate Field Guide to Photography: Buy Now!
Visit our Online Shops

Sign up for free

Newsletters

Once a month
get new photos
and expert tips.

Palmyra Ruins, Syria, 1999

Photo: Ancient stone pillars

These monumental stone pillars are among the incredible remains of the second century B.C. kingdom of Palmyra, Syria, an oasis and trade crossroads in the Syrian desert.

Roman forces sacked Palmyra in A.D. 273 after its powerful queen Zenobia challenged imperial rule. The city continued to be an important landmark after Roman conquest, hosting silk caravans from China, spice traders from India, and perfume merchants from Arabia.

(Photo shot on assignment for, but not published in, "Lawrence of Arabia: A Hero's Journey," January 1999, National Geographic magazine)

Buy a print of this photo.

Photograph by Annie Griffiths Belt

Special Advertising Section

Photo: Men wearing kilts

Photo Contest

Think your photo is the "Ultimate" winner? Submit your best in six different categories.

Photo: Man picking a tea leaf

Photo Gallery

See how Lipton is dedicated to sustainable agriculture. View photos from Boyd Matson's trip to Africa.

Photo Tip of the Week

Smile!

Always read up about native customs before traveling to a foreign culture. Always smile.

More Photo Tips

Photography DVDs

Photo: Photography DVD box

Get the stories behind the lens and experience photography at its best!

New Photo Books From National Geographic

Photo: Visions of Paradise book cover

Own the latest images from our world-renowned photographers!