IS destroys ancient Palmyra ruins

Islamic State (IS) militants have blown up the Baalshamin temple in Palmyra, as the destruction of the archaeological jewels of the Middle East escalates

PALMYRA: Built on site of ancient caravan route, unique combination of Roman and Persian architectural styles

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May 2015: IS captures Tadmur, city close to ruins of Palmyra

TURKEY
SYRIA
IRAQ
LEBANON
Damascus
Aleppo
Raqqa
Deir al-Zor

100km
62 miles

Area of IS dominance
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Temple of Baalshamin: Destroyed

Temple of Bel: Most important religious buildings of 1st Century in East

Local museum: Contains busts and reliefs from Palmyra’s many funerary monuments 

Senate House

Monumental Arch: Outstanding example of Palmyrene art

Khaled al-Asaad: Archaeologist beheaded Aug 18 

Grand Colonnade 

Theatre

Agora

Reconstructed Diocletian walls

Diocletian baths

200m
650ft

Source: Unesco
Pictures: Getty Images, Google Earth