Drone footage reveals some ruins in Palmyra survived Islamic State occupation

DAMASCUS, Syria, March 28 (UPI) -- Drone footage released by Russian state television on Monday revealed some of the archaeological ruins in the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra survived the destructive Islamic State occupation.

The Islamic State seized control of Palmyra in May and immediately began demolishing ancient ruins considered among the world's most treasured. The iconic Temple of Bel, the Arch of Triumph and the Temple of Baalshamin were among structures destroyed by the Islamist militant group.

Syrian military forces and militias loyal to the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad formally recaptured Palmyra on Sunday with the aid of Russian airstrikes.

Palmyra, in the Homs countryside northeast of Damascus, was a caravan oasis with various influences. Its art and architecture are a mix of Greek, Roman and Persian styles, according to UNESCO.

Following the recapture of Palmyra, Syrian Director of Antiquities Maamoun Abdelkarim said the destroyed buildings will be rebuilt using any surviving ruins.