Bekaa Valley

Bekaa lies between the two parallel mountain ranges in Lebanon. It is a fertile land irrigated by the Litany river and is the largest agricultural area in Lebanon, with an advanced winery industry of international standards. It is the tip of the Great Rift Valley that stretches into Africa. The Phoenician inscriptions of 1400 BC has described the Bekaa as the Place for the Gods’.

Bekaa is also rich in archaeology and history has left some of its most famous monuments scattered all over this region.

Anjar An archaeological site excavated 40 years ago and one of the few surviving ruins of the 8th century umayyad period. Anjar was a hunting grounds and a resort for the traveling princes of the period. Still intact are the city’s walls and gates surrounding the twin palaces of the caliph. The remains of 600 shops indicate that Anjar was also an important trading centre that drew traders from all corners of the land. Arcades, engravings and symbols show the Roman-Byzantine influence on the umayyad architecture.

Baalbeck A most fascinating historical site with majestic Roman temples of gigantic size, the tallest ever erected columns, and largest stones ever cut, are still standing in perfect balance and harmony deceiving the eye in the first instance, as to their actual size. A new temple has been discovered in 1995 and is being excavated and an umayyad mosque still stands in the city centre. Baalbeck, in the past, enjoyed an annual international festival of dance, music and drama staged at the Roman temples. This proud tradition will soon be revived.

Zahle Called The Bride of the Bekaa’ because of its natural beauty and marvellous scenery. Located on the banks of the Bardouni River where there are many riverside restaurants famous for their cuisine.

Chtaura Another town that is famous for its healthy dry climate and delicious foods served by its
restaurants. Both Zahle and Chtaura serve as a resting base from where many historical sites can be
visited a short distance away.

Hermel Has two interesting sites. A pyramid believed to the tomb chamber of a Syrian prince around the 2nd century BC, and the monastery of St. Maroun which is a grotto carved in the mountain rocks.

What to See

•   Baalbeck Roman Temples and Umaayyad Mosque
•   Anjar Ummayyad ancient city
•   Roman Temples at Niha near Zahle
•   Rock cut Roman Tombs at Furzol near Zahle
•   Noah’s Tomb as claimed by the residents at Karak, near Zahle
•   Mystery carvings at Qab Elias, near Zahle
•   Hermel’s pyramid and Monastery of St. Maroun
•   Ksara winery near Zahle
•   Kefraya winery near Chtaura

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see also: Baalbeck