Palmyra (modern)

Palmyra is a modern town located in the Homs Governorate of Syria, situated adjacent to the ancient city of Palmyra. Built in the 20th century, it was initially intended to house the inhabitants of the old city and facilitate tourism to the archaeological site. The modern town developed as a service center, providing accommodation, restaurants, shops, and other amenities for visitors exploring the ancient ruins.

The modern town's existence is inextricably linked to the ancient city, both economically and culturally. The discovery and subsequent exploitation of nearby phosphate mines also contributed to its growth.

However, the modern town of Palmyra has suffered significantly during the Syrian Civil War. It was captured by ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) in 2015 and again in 2016, resulting in extensive damage to both the ancient city and the modern infrastructure. Many residents were displaced during the conflict. Following its recapture by Syrian government forces, efforts have been underway to rebuild the town and restore services. The future of modern Palmyra remains closely tied to the preservation and accessibility of the ancient site and the overall stability of the region.