The best preserved remains in Bosra is the impressive Citadel Theatre, a Classical Roman theatre embraced by an Islamic citadel. The construction began in Trajan's time when a 9000 seat theatre was built in this newly selected capital of the Roman Province of Arabia. The fusion came under the Muslim rule when the citadel with eight guard towers was built to defend against the Crusade.
A bridge over a moat led us into a entry hall of the citadel. Walking through the Islamic citadel to enter the theatre was like walking through a labyrinth of tunnels. Without proper signage, it is quite possible to temporary get lost in the underground portion of this complex. Steep stairs and dark corridors led to the entryways of the theatre. Under the bright sun, the dark tone of the basalt, the main construction material of the entire city of Bosra, was clearly shown.
We stayed at the theatre for about half an hour, found our way onto the stage, and hurried out of the labyrinth-like tunnel to exit the complex. We made it on time to the bus station to take the 14:00 bus back to Damascus.
