In the Syrian steppe, Palmyra thrived as a cultural melting pot, rich from trade routes. Queen Zenobia, its ruler, faced Emperor Aurelian's challenge over her authority. Under Septimius Odaenathus, Palmyra enhanced its military and political significance. However, the Roman Empire's instability, marked by usurpations and external invasions, threatened its cohesion. The empire was fracturing, with regions declaring independence and internal power struggles, exemplified by Macrianus' attempt to take Rome. Palmyra stood as a beacon of prosperity and strategic importance amidst the chaos.