Mosque of Omar, Bosra

This is one of the oldest mosques in the world, dating from the beginning of the seventh century. It was built on the cite of an ancient temple and incorporates many of the temple's elements. Mara was also allowed in but did have to wear a cloak.

A merchant named Mohammad, before he became a prophet is said to have visited Bosra many times. He must have seen these same basalt stones, in a somewhat different configuration.

We liked the ancient mosque's modernist staircase.