Lebanon is a country that opens the whole world of the magical east to the tourist in the European format that is familiar to us. There are a huge number of sights on the territory of the country, which are worth touching at least once in your life.
Few people associate Lebanon with Europe. And it is unlikely that many consider it as an interesting destination for tourism. But in vain! There are many ancient, ancient cities and settlements in the country. It seems that it was in these parts that the development of civilization began. In Baalbek and Byblos, you can see architectural monuments, the creation of which is attributed to aliens, due to their enormous size and structure.
It is also worth paying attention to the natural beauty of the country. Most impressive: Jeita Caves, Pigeon Rocks and picturesque valleys that lie between mountain ranges. You can explore these places even without the help of a guide. Crowds of tourists will not interfere with a quiet holiday.
Lebanon is a Mediterranean country. The country has all the conditions for a beach holiday: the beaches are clean, well-groomed, with a developed infrastructure. It's amazing how such a small country can accommodate such a variety and richness of culture and nature.
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What to see in Lebanon?
The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a short description.
Beirut city
Beirut is the capital of Lebanon and its largest city. Its area is only 20 km², where a huge number of attractions are located. Beirut is called the "Paris of the Middle East". He was part of France and retained a European outlook on life. At the same time, the capital is colorful, everything here reminds of the magnificent Arab traditions.
Baalbek ancient city
The ancient city of Baalbek is located 80 km from Beirut. It was inhabited even before our era, and its temples were built and rebuilt for 2000 years. Their creation is attributed to extraterrestrial civilizations or the heroes of biblical legends: such incredible sizes and structures of buildings. The most interesting for tourists are terraces made of blocks weighing up to 1000 tons, the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Bacchus, which is very well preserved.
Ancient city of Byblos
X thousand years ago, the first settlements were on the territory of Byblos, and in the third millennium BC the city was an important religious and commercial center. Since then, people have never left it. On the territory of the city you can see old churches, a Roman theater, an archaeological complex, a fortress. In Byblos you can feel the atmosphere of one of the oldest cities in the world, a mixture of cultures and traditions.
Ruins of the city of Anjar
The city is located 58 km from Beirut. There is an assumption that the ancient Iturean city of Khaltsis was once on the site of Anjar. The city itself has not been found, but archaeologists have discovered the remains of a majestic palace complex. Its ruins and surrounding areas are included in the UNESCO heritage list. Modern Anjar was founded in 1939 and is inhabited by 2,400 people, most of whom are Armenians.
Jeita Caves
This is an incredible natural attraction and must-see. It is a tunnel - an exit from an underground river. Karst limestone caves stretch for almost 9 km, but tourists are shown only 600 m. Also, in one of the caves, the remains of a foundry were found. In ancient times, people made weapons here. A unique music festival is held in the cave every year.
Virgin Mary of Lebanon (Jounieh)
It is a monument built in the city of Jounieh, 20 km from Beirut. It was cast in France, and then transported to Lebanon and placed on the Harissa hill, which is 650 m high. Therefore, the 20-meter statue of the Virgin Mary can be seen from anywhere in the city. You can climb to it by cable car, having examined the area at the same time. There are also many attractions at the foot of the mountain.
National Museum of Beirut
To understand the rich and confusing history of Lebanon, you need to visit the National Museum of Beirut. It contains a collection of more than 100 thousand artifacts, which is constantly being replenished. This museum is one of the richest in the Middle East. It contains incredible mosaics, valuable sarcophagi including the sarcophagus of King Ahiram and excavation sites.
Sursock Museum
A frequent museum housed in a beautiful old house owned by Nikola Sursok. According to his will, after his death, the house was turned into a museum. The exposition includes more than 5000 exhibits and a large library. The museum exhibits both antiques and examples of contemporary art. The most interesting are the old jug, the first printed Koran and the ancient Bible.
Star Square in Beirut
This is the heart of old Beirut. Many attractions are concentrated around it, and the adjacent streets are fraught with many secrets and a long history. There are even several Christian shrines among the buildings. With the onset of darkness, the square becomes the center of Beirut's nightlife. There are many cafes and bars that are loved by the locals.
Martyrs Square in Beirut
Back in the 30s of the last century, a monument to the Lebanese who died fighting the Turkish invaders was erected on the square. Since that time, the square has received its name. During the war, the so-called "Green Line" also passed through it, which divided Beirut into two parts: Muslim and Christian. Near the square is the beautiful Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque.
Muhammad Al Amin Mosque
The mosque was built for 5 years, from 2002 to 2007 near the Martyrs Square by Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. After his death, he was buried next to her. The area of the mosque exceeds 10 thousand km². The yellow stones of the walls contrast with the blue dome with features of gold. It is a masterpiece of Beirut's religious architecture. Local residents hold political demonstrations near it.
St Paul's Cathedral (Jounieh)
The temple is located at the foot of Mount Harissa, which houses the statue of the Virgin Mary. It was built in 1962. This is one of the most beautiful buildings in Lebanon, a striking example of Byzantine architecture. Divine services in the temple are held according to the Byzantine rite, and it belongs to the Melkite Greek Catholic Church. The cathedral has an unusual appearance and rich decoration.
Mseilha Fort
To the north of the city of Batrun is a medieval fortification - Fort Mseila. It rises on a long and narrow limestone terrace above the Nakhrel Yauz River. The fortress was built by Emir Fakhruddin II in the 17th century. The fort is guarded by walls 1.5 - 2 meters thick made of sandstone. You can enter the fortress through a gate; inside it there is a triangular courtyard and an entrance to the towers.
Sidonian fortress
The fortress is located on the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon. In the past, she defended the port of the city of Sidon, which once flourished. The fortifications that have survived to this day were created by the Crusaders in the 13th century. Tourists can explore the massive defensive towers of the fortress. In the western one, which is better preserved, you can see the remains of ancient weapons.
Fortress Saint-Gilles
Citadel Raymund de Saint-Gilles is located in the city of Tripoli. It is named after the Count of Toulouse, the commander of the Crusaders. He began building it on the top of the hill in 1103 as a defense against attacks. It is a powerful structure, 140 meters long and 70 meters wide. Besides the fact that the fortress gives an excellent idea of the historical events of Lebanon, it offers beautiful views.
Moussa Castle
Moussa Castle is called the Fortress of Love. It was built by a poor villager for his beloved. He began construction at the age of 14 and continued to build the castle for the next 25 years. The saddest thing is that he never won the heart of his beloved, but he achieved the great love of local residents. Tours of the castle are conducted by Moussa himself. He shares his story with everyone.
Dog river
The river got its name because of the legend about the dog guarding the banks.But it is interesting not only for this. Numerous military campaigns were carried out along it, and the history of Lebanon was made, because of which you can see many commemorative tablets. It is an important landmark of the country. It carries information about the fateful events that influenced the future of the country.
Shuf Cedar Reserve
It is the largest nature reserve in Lebanon. Its area is 550 km², which is about 5% of the entire country. The main protected value of the reserve is the Lebanese cedar. Some of them are 2 thousand years old. The reserve is home to 32 species of mammals and about 200 species of birds. Not far from the reserve are the Kab Ilias and Kalat Ninha fortresses.
Bekaa Valley
The valley is located in the east of Lebanon, 30 km from Beirut. It is an important agricultural area that lies between the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges. The largest cities in the valley are Zahre and Bekaa. There are many interesting places in the valley. The temple complex located on its territory is included in the UNESCO heritage list. The valley also acquired a sad glory after the Lebanese War.
Valley of Wadi Kadisha
It is a valley located in the Bishir and Zgarta regions. Its name translates as "Sacred". This is due to the fact that at one time there were many Christian shrines on its territory, and there was a monastic community. Because of this, it was taken under the protection of UNESCO, as one of the earliest places for the formation of monastic settlements.
Pigeon rocks
It is a natural wonder of Beirut. Pigeon Rocks are two small islands that are located off the coast in the Mediterranean Sea. They got their name because of the large number of pigeons that make nests and have lived here for hundreds of years. This place will be interesting for photographers. At sunset, you can take beautiful pictures while sitting in a cozy restaurant on the shore.
Casino du Liban
Among the many cafes, restaurants and bars, shops and hotels located near the Bay of Jounieh, stands the huge "Casino du Liban". It was discovered in 1959. Its area is 34 thousand square meters. It is a vibrant tourist attraction that includes over 60 poker tables, roulette and 400 slot machine rooms, a showroom and five restaurants.
Mediterranean coast
The Mediterranean has gathered around itself a wide variety of resorts and attracts a huge number of tourists every year. Lebanon owns 225 km of coastline, the main resorts of which are Beirut, Sidon, Nabatea, Tripoli, Tire. The coast of the latter is considered the cleanest. Most of the beaches are paid, but the price includes sun loungers, umbrellas, showers and even a visit to a cafe.
Baatara Falls
Baatara Falls is located near the town of Tannorin. It was discovered in 1953 by researcher Henry Coyff. Its name translates as "The Cave of Three Bridges". It is given to the waterfall because of the three caves through which its waters pass. The height of the waterfall is 225 meters, which makes it very spectacular, powerful and picturesque. The waterfall is popular with tourists.
