The shrine of the Holy Martyr Ilian was built in the XV century. It belonged to the epoch of the Syrian Catholic Church and is located on the outskirts of the recently liberated city of Al-Qaryatayn.
An RT correspondent was one of the first who was able to inspect the church after the liberation of Al-Qaryatayn from Daesh extremists.
The Christian city of Al-Qaryatayn is situated in Homs province. It was captured by Daesh militants almost a year ago.
The city has a population of 40 thousand and it was seized by militants with little or no resistance. The terrorists were supported by pre-prepared troops recruited from among local residents.
The terrorists promised to execute all the Christians if the Syrian army decided to storm the city. It took almost 9 months to release the hostages.
From Al-Qaryatayn, militants moved reinforcements and ammunition to Palmyra to fight against government forces.
Earlier last week though Syrian government forces gained control over the city. According to Syrian military, 80 percent of the town is controlled by government forces.
Militants continue to retreat in off-road vehicles to the north side of the mountains. The Syrian army is deploying military hardware to the town.
