Polish Archaeology in the Mediterranean (11.1999(2000))

PALMYRA

SYRIA

ancient levels. Beyond, there ran a cross street
(Oil-Press Street) of which two corner pillars
were found, the border of the portico pave-
ment joining one of them (Fig. 9).
The most interesting, however, was
the discovery of a perpendicular wall
below the street level. It was cut by the
foundation of the corner pillar and is
therefore older than the Colonnade. The

associated pottery belongs to the 1st cen-
tury AD.
While unassuming for the moment,
this find can gain in importance once
more remains of this early date are locat-
ed under the main street. Valuable infor-
mation pertaining to the urbanism of
Palmyra in its early stages may then be
expected.


Fig. 9. The base of a corner pillar of Oil-Press Street, cutting across an early foundation
of the Great Colonnade (Photo M. Gaivlikowski)

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