In this episode Houston and Oban will take you on a voyage to discover the Syrian Queen of Arab origin: Zenobia of Palmyra. Known for her beauty, intelligence and her strong character, the Queen of Palmyra was hailed as a descendant of Cleopatra and a savior of her people. She led her armies in many campaigns to expand the territory of her empire, to defying both the Emperors of Rome and the Shahs of Iran.
She is known in Syria as a symbol of rebellion and resistance against Imperialist forces. Her legacy looms large as does the presence of her great oasis city of the Silk Road, Palmyra, who's ruins still stand as a testament to a glorious past. Her story has shaped Syrian national identity till this very day, a true hero to her people.
How did she defy Rome? What were her mysterious origins? Why did her empire fall as quickly as it rose? All these questions and more are explored in this episode of The 1001 Arabian Knights!