Baalbek in Lebanon

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Baalbeck (World Heritage Review)
Destination Lebanon: Baalbeck (Ministy of Tourism)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1984
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 36,205°
Latitude: 34,007°

Summary

This Phoenician city, where a triad of deities was worshipped, was known as Heliopolis during the Hellenistic period. It retained its religious function during Roman times, when the sanctuary of the Heliopolitan Jupiter attracted thousands of pilgrims. Baalbek, with its colossal structures, is one of the finest examples of Imperial Roman architecture at its apogee.

Location on Map

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Introduction

Baalbek, located in the City and District of Baalbek in the Beqaa Governorate of Lebanon, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient ruins. This archaeological complex is a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of the region. Baalbek's origins date back to the Phoenician period, and it later became a Roman city, leaving behind an impressive collection of well-preserved structures.

History

The history of Baalbek can be traced back over 5,000 years. Originally a Phoenician settlement dedicated to the worship of Baal, the city gained prominence during the Hellenistic period under the rule of the Seleucids. However, it was during the Roman era that Baalbek reached its zenith. The Romans transformed the city into a grand religious center, constructing monumental temples dedicated to Jupiter, Bacchus, and Venus.

The construction of Baalbek's most iconic structure, the Temple of Jupiter, began in the 1st century AD and continued for several centuries. The temple complex was built using colossal stones, some weighing over 1,000 tons, making it one of the largest religious structures of the ancient world. The Temple of Bacchus, dedicated to the Roman god of wine, is another remarkable structure within the site. Its intricate design and well-preserved state have earned it the title of one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world.

Current State

Despite the passage of time and various conflicts in the region, Baalbek has managed to retain much of its grandeur. The site is now a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its architectural splendor and historical significance.

However, the ongoing political instability in Lebanon has posed challenges for the preservation and maintenance of Baalbek. The site has occasionally been affected by nearby conflicts, leading to temporary closures and limited access. Nevertheless, efforts have been made to ensure the protection and conservation of this invaluable heritage site.

UNESCO has played a crucial role in safeguarding Baalbek, recognizing its outstanding universal value and including it on the World Heritage List in 1984. The organization has provided technical assistance and financial support for the preservation and restoration of the site. These efforts have included measures to stabilize the structures, prevent further deterioration, and enhance visitor experiences through improved infrastructure and interpretation.

Today, visitors to Baalbek can explore the vast archaeological complex, marvel at the grand temples, and wander through the ancient streets. The site offers a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the ancient world and provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history of the region.

Conclusion

Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Lebanon, stands as a testament to the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. Its well-preserved temples and ruins offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman era. Despite the challenges posed by political instability, Baalbek continues to captivate visitors with its historical significance and architectural marvels. Efforts to preserve and protect this invaluable heritage site ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from its rich cultural legacy.

Hotels and places to stay

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Kanaan Group Hotel

Address
Distance: 1,0 mi
Ras El Ein Street, Ras El Ein
1800 Baalbek
Lebanon

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Libanon: Baalbek

Published: March 22, 2010
Length: 08:41 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Lars Hoffmann

In der Ausgrabungsstätte von Baalbek hat man den größten römischen Einzeltempel gefunden. Im Jupitertempel wurden drei der vier größten je verbauten Steine weltweit gefunden. Klar, dass...

Baalbek5

Published: June 22, 2010
Length: 32:00 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Mike Kallas

Roman Ruins Baalbek Lebanon.

11_SYRIA 2010 - Baalbeck in Libano

Published: April 05, 2010
Length: 39:56 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Sergio Pozzi

Con gli Amici del Tempo Libero di Cernusco sul Naviglio.

Baalbeck

Published: November 10, 2014
Length: 02:31 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: 3ishbeirut

Baalbeck, Lebanon's greatest Roman treasure, can be counted among the wonders of the ancient world. The largest and most noble Roman temples ever built www.3ishbeirut.org.

Heliopolis, Lebanon

Published: November 23, 2013
Length: 01:21 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Henk Sebregts

Video with images of Heliopolis an ancient sanctuary and pilgrimage site conquered by Alexander the Great in the fourth century BC. Starting in the last quarter of the first century BC and...