Legendary Palestinian singer Rim Banna laid to rest in Nazareth

Palestinian singer Rim Banna passed away early Saturday morning, after a nine year battle against breast cancer.

Hundreds of mourners attended Banna's funeral Saturday evening at her home city of Nazareth, while fans took to social media and paid tribute to the legendary singer.

Banna, aged 51, was a cultural icon in Palestine known for her patriotic songs and wearing traditional dresses during concerts.

Despite being diagnosed with breast cancer, Banna continued to pursue music until ill health forced her to take a break from performing, two years ago.

Her family issued a statement Saturday, saying she had died in the early hours of the morning.

"Rim Banna's family, including her mother Zouhaira, her brother Firas, and her children Baylasan, Ursalem and Qamran, as well as her friends… convey the deeply saddening news of the departure of their daughter and Palestine's renowned singer Rim Banna," the statement read.

Her mum Zouhaira, a renowned poet, paid tribute to Rim on Facebook. "[Rim Banna] departed and left behind her bright smile," she said.

Last week, her family reported that the mother-of-three's health had deteriorated but that she hoped to recover and perform again soon.

Banna was famed for reviving Palestinian folk songs for children and traditional poetry.

Her memory was honoured by Palestinian Knesset member Aymann Odeh who said she was "one of the pillars of progressive Palestinian poetry".