At one time, Beirut, the capital of the East Mediterranean nation of Lebanon, was the top tourist draw of the region. Known as the Paris of the East, it attracted the rich of the entire Arab region. While Lebanon has suffered greatly in the endless wars in neighboring Syria and Israel, it has picked up in recent years. Today, Lebanon offers visitors a modern Arab experience, together with a deep look at its carefully preserved history. Here are ten incredible places to visit in Lebanon.
The Corniche
The Corniche is a popular promenade area along the Beirut’s seaside. With a wide coastal Boulevard running along its length and the famous Raouché rock arching out in the distance in the sea, the Corniche is a wonderful spot to spend an evening when the place fills up with families and couples, out for a walk. While most people simply come to stretch their legs, for those who are more zestful, the Luna Park amusement park nearby is a great attraction. Pole fishing is another fun possibility.
The Temple of Bacchus
The Temple of Bacchus is a vast and ancient ruin built on the same architectural theme as the Parthenon of Athens. Dating to 150 AD, the temple at the time was originally dedicated to Venus. Today, the Temple of Bacchus is in much better repair than the Parthenon. Many architectural details have survived the centuries.
The Central District of Beirut
While the downtown area of Beirut is completely urbanized, its many historical sites are kept in well-preserved condition. The Garden of Forgiveness, the Roman Baths and Garden in the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, all have great historical significance. Other great attractions include the Castle Square, the site of the ancient settlement of Berytus, and the legendary Nejme Square. The central district has a modern side, too – it has fashionable boulevards and hundreds of modern stores for tourists to explore.
The National Museum
Photo: hragv
Beirut’s National Museum curates more than 1,000 archaeological exhibits from the country’s prehistoric and medieval past. The highlights of the museum’s collection include Phoenician statues of children dating to the 5th century BC, Byzantine gold jewelry and gilded figurines from Byblos.
Read also – 10 Spectacular Natural Wonders of the Middle East
Byblos
Byblos is famous for being one of the oldest settlements of the region. The history of this small, coastal fishing town goes back 5 millennia. The ruins of the Crusader Castle are the top attraction in this town today. A walk around this medieval town can be fascinating, taking you past beautifully preserved streets and ancient stone houses, still lived in. For tourists, Byblos has great seafood and souvenir shopping.
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