Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on Sunday visited the town of Maaloula, which was recaptured by the government forces. Maaloula is a sacred town for Syrians.  It is situated some 55 kilometers from Damascus. Maaloula has recently been recaptured by government forces. Lots of buildings, including Christian churches, have been destroyed, so have many icons. Images of Bashar al-Assad visiting Maaloula in this photo gallery by ITAR-TASS