The capture and threatened destruction by ISIS of the vast and majestic third-century ruins of Palmyra in Syria may re-awaken interest in Zenobia, the warrior Queen of Palmyra. Bust of Zenobia Palmyra was founded in an oasis athwart an ancient East-West trade route, and its relics are of historic importance to several civilisations. Zenobia, originally a Roman puppet like Cleopatra, had a love-hate relationship with Rome, admiring its achievements but chafing under its rule. Dates are u…
