(MENAFN- NewsBytes)
Allies Russia and Syria have completely retaken the Islamic State-held Palmyra, ending the second occupation of the city by the IS, officials said.
Post heavy shelling and clashes on March 1, the IS withdrew after planting mines in several areas. Forces entered deep into the city afterwards.
During their first occupation, the IS destroyed many iconic structures in the city.
Timeline Islamic State recaptures Syria's historic city of Palmyra 14 Dec 2016
Islamic State militants have reportedly retaken Syria's historic city of Palmyra following days of intense fighting on the outskirts prompting a withdrawal of Syria's military.
An IS-affiliated news channel claimed victory in the battle with the army saying its "soldiers" had reclaimed control over Palmyra.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - a war monitoring organization - confirmed the same.
Palmyra - the "Bride of the Desert" Historic Significance
Palmyra, a UNESCO world heritage site, boasts 2000-year-old Roman-era colonnades and artifacts; it's called the "Bride of the Desert."
It was the hub of caravan trails that carried spices and silks from Eastern Asia to the Mediterranean.
It prospered during the Hellenistic period and later became a part of the Roman Empire.
It was the top tourist attraction before the Syrian Civil War began.
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