Aoukar (Awkar)
History
Aoukar got its name from the old monastery of Aoukar that was built before 1305 A.D. The name means “the sake place” in Assyrian language. The lands of Aoukar were owned by the Antonite church until 1945.
Agriculture
Aoukar was mainly a busy land. During the 1930’s the Antonite church cultivated some of the land and grew mostly citrus fruits and seasonal vegetables. Most of the land is still uncultivated and covered by pine trees.
Construction
Aoukar is divided into two distinctive areas:
- The first extends from Dbayeh until the eastern elevation and has ordinary residential buildings.
- The second extends from St. George monastery to the Chan Ville School and is characterized by posh buildings and villas.
Geography
- Aoukar is boarded to the east by Beit el Shaar, and Deik el Mehdi
- Dbayeh to the west
- Haret el Belaneh to the north
- Nakkash to the south
Aoukar is 50 m above sea level and has natural winter canals, its weather is similar to Dbayeh with less humidity and slightly lower temperatures.
Demography (1983)
Population 625 distributed over 75 hektars
Number of buildings 60 mostly 2 stores
Average 5 persons per family, age distribution similar to Dbayeh
Land Distribution
Aoukar’s area is approximately 750, 000 m²
- 55, 000 m² construction
- 290, 000 m² agriculture
- 400, 000 m² bushes and pine trees
- 5, 000 m² industry
Utilities
Aoukar’s drinking water is supplied by the Beirut water company and Jal el Dib water company and a third private water company. Electricity is supplied from two distributing stations in Antelias and Bekfia respectively.
Religion Places
A historical church dating back to 1305 A.D.
A new St. George Monastery (1940)
American Embassy
Due to Aoukars natural location, and the distinctive architect, the American Embassy in Lebanon has chose Aoukar as its main location for the embassy, offices, and for residential purposes.
See also:
Dbayeh Aoukar Zouk Khrab Haret el Belaneh
Dbayeh Aoukar Zouk Khrab Haret el Belaneh