Every two years Bosra's ampitheatre stops being another box to tick on the tourist map, and returns to its former glory. For a few short days, the sounds of traditional Syrian singers will reverberate around one of the most beautiful outdoor theatres in the Roman Empire.



The international festival brings together 14 other Arab and international states, and is the 18th time the gathering has been held.

The black stone theatre is designed in a semi-circle to trap and reflect the sound, channeling it to every single listener - even at the lofty heights of the very top of the ampitheatre. And that's a long way up - the place can hold 15,000 people.

Bosra is the most well preserved Roman ampitheatre in the world - its still virtually intact, even the underground passageways and paths into the arena are still functioning.

17 traditional Syrian singers and dancers will perform at the bi-annual Bosra festival - make the most of it while it lasts. Bosra is about one hour south of Damascus.