The rediscovery of Palmyra and its dissemination in Philosophical Transactions

The first documented Western encounter with the ancient city of Palmyra, described by British merchants in the late 17th century, was published in Philosophical Transactions (mid-1690s), marking a pivotal moment for early modern archaeology and the dissemination of Palmyra's archaeological legacy. This study reveals how merchant accounts, featuring drawings and reports, were instrumental in introducing Palmyra to the scientific community, establishing Philosophical Transactions as a foundational platform for its study. The paper traces the origins and impact of these accounts, highlighting their enduring influence on subsequent research and the development of early archaeological practices within the Royal Society.

Astengo, G. (2016). The rediscovery of Palmyra and its dissemination in Philosophical Transactions. Notes and Records: The Royal Society Journal of the History of Science, 70(3), 209–230. https://doi.org/10.1098/rsnr.2015.0059