Images The Temple of Bel: entrance and courtyard

The cult of Bel originates in Mesopotamia, from where it spread throughout the Near East and to Palmyra. The temple of Bel in Palmyra was inaugurated in the year 32 A.D., one year before Jesus’ crucifixion. The cult of Bel gave birth to pilgrimages and the ceremonies held at the beginning of April. To worship their god, people came not only from Palmyra, but also from all part of the kingdom; they entered the temple and then circled the cell of the statute of god Bel seven times. The priests of the temple of Bel were the most powerful in the city. They wore different robes and turbans with olive leaves. The funeral arrangements of the priests show great refinement, testifying that some priests were also very rich.