Khirbet El-Knese, Archaeological site in Yanta, Lebanon
Khirbet El-Knese is an archaeological site in the mountainous Rashaya District containing ruins of churches, wells, houses, and oil presses. The structures are spread across the terrain and show how people once lived and worked in this area.
The site shows evidence of continuous human settlements from the fourth century BC to the eighth century AD. This long period of occupation reveals how important this location was across different eras.
Inscriptions and artifacts found here show the mark of Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic cultures that shaped this region over centuries. These remains tell the story of different peoples who lived here and left their traces behind.
The terrain is hilly with ruins spread across the landscape, so expect uneven paths and wear sturdy shoes. It helps to contact a local guide to better understand the different structures and their layout.
Inscriptions here suggest a connection to Saint Stephen, recognized as the first Christian martyr, who according to local tradition was buried in this area. This link makes the place particularly meaningful for pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
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