Ancient Syrian city Palmyra falls to Isis

Palmyra, Syria. Image by american_rugbier / CC BY-SA 2.0

After prolonged fighting, Isis have taken over the historic city of Palmyra in Syria, leaving it exposed to almost certain destruction. Civilians were evacuated and some ancient artefacts taken to safety ahead of the offensive, but the city’s ruins, including well-preserved temples and colonnades are still under threat. Read more: theguardian.com