Ancient monumental arch in Palmyra demolished by Islamic State

The destruction of Syria's ancient cultural heritage continued today with the reported demolition of a 2nd century CE monumental arch at Palmyra, a world heritage site seized by militants of the so-called Islamic State in May 2015.

The arch was reportedly built during Emperor Septimius Severus's reign (193 to 211 CE), possibly to celebrate his victories over the Parthians. Elaborately decorated, the arch was emblematic of the city when Western travellers brought back to Europe their accounts and illustrations of the site in the 18th century.