2,000-year-old Roman street in Shahba still in use today

Historic stone-paved route remains a vital part of city life in southern Syria

SWEIDA, Syria (MNTV) – A remarkably preserved Roman-era street in the heart of Shahba city, located in Syria’s Sweida province, continues to serve as a functional thoroughfare nearly 2,000 years after it was first constructed.

According to archaeologist Dr. Nashat Kiwan, the ancient paved street is a significant example of urban infrastructure from the Roman period, and one of the best-preserved in the region. 

Stretching over 200 meters in length and more than 10 meters in width, the street is laid with intricately carved square stones characteristic of the distinctive architectural style of Old Shahba.

“This street represents an exceptional model of internal urban planning in the ancient towns of Mount Horan,” Dr. Kiwan explained. “It remains a rare example of a Roman road that has retained its original form and function.”

Following recent restoration efforts, the historic street continues to be used by residents, with a number of old houses and multi-purpose shops lining its edges. 

Dr. Kiwan noted that it is the only Roman street in the area that has survived in such condition and is still in daily use by the local community.

The city of Shahba, founded during the Roman era, is home to a rich array of archaeological landmarks. 

These include a Roman theater, public baths, a museum, and an imperial temple, all contributing to the city’s reputation as a significant historical and cultural site in southern Syria.