Satellite images confirm IS destruction of Palmyra temple: UN

The United Nations says satellite images prove the destruction of another famous temple in the Syrian city of Palmyra.

The main sanctuary inside the Temple of Bel at the ancient Syrian site of Palmyra, a World Heritage Site. (AAP)

• What is Palmyra and why is it so significant?

Satellite images have confirmed that a famous temple in the Syrian city of Palmyra has been destroyed.

The UN training and research agency (UNITAR) today released images showing the Temple of Bel before and after it was destroyed by the so-called Islamic State.

A UNITAR handout shows a combo of satellite views of the ancient city of Palmyra in central Syria before (top) and after (down) the explosion on 30 August at Palmyra's ancient temple of Bel, which is held by Islamic State. (AAP) Source: UNOSAT

"We can confirm destruction of the main building of the Temple of Bel, as well as a row of columns in its immediate vicinity," UNITAR said in a statement.

Last week the Islamic State bombed the smaller temple of Baal Shamin in Palmyra, which UNESCO described as a "war crime."

The group was also responsible for beheading prominent Syrian archaeologist Khaled al-Asaad earlier this month.