Lebanon, Mediterranean country in Middle East.
Description
Lebanon is a Mediterranean state in Western Asia that stretches along the Levantine coast over roughly 10,450 square kilometers (4,030 square miles). The terrain rises from sea level to two parallel mountain ranges that carry snow in winter and offer dry summer conditions.
History
After centuries under Ottoman control, the territory became a French mandate in 1920 and gained independence on November 22, 1943. A National Pact at that time regulated power distribution among confessional groups and continues to shape the political system today.
Culture
Eighteen recognized religious communities shape daily coexistence and leave their marks on architecture, food, and celebrations. Churches and mosques stand side by side, and religious traditions permeate everyday routines, influencing one another in the way spaces are used and festivals are observed.
Practical
Beirut serves as the main entry point with an international airport and seaport, while journeys between coast and mountains are possible within a few hours. The short distances and changing elevations allow for rapid climatic shifts in a single day.
Did you know?
Cedar forests that once supplied timber for Phoenician vessels and Solomon's temple now survive in protected high-altitude zones. They appear as the national symbol on the flag and remain part of collective memory.
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Lebanon offers many subjects for photography, ranging from natural formations to historical monuments. The Raouché Rocks at Beirut rise from the sea, while the Jeita Grotto contains underground chambers with stalactites that visitors can explore. Ancient Roman structures stand at Baalbek, and the...
Baalbek Stones
35.6 km
Cedars of God
45.2 km
Roman temple of Bziza
44 km
Jeita Grotto
20.2 km
Temple of Bacchus
36.4 km
Our Lady of Lebanon
21.3 km
Anti-Lebanon mountains
62.2 km
Trilithon of Baalbek
36.3 km
Temple of Jupiter
36.3 km
Kadisha Valley
44 km
Berytus
31.3 km
Baatara gorge waterfall
33.3 km
National Museum of Beirut
30.4 km
Beaufort Castle
67.7 km
Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
31.2 km
Raouché Rocks
34.5 km
Qurnet Al Sawda
53.7 km
Temples of Baalbek
36.5 km
Sidon Sea Castle
55.6 km
Tyre
90.3 km
Temple of Eshmun
52.3 km
Seyyede Khoulah bint Hossein shrine
36 km
Beiteddine Palace
31.5 km
Moussa Castle
30.9 km
Byblos Castle
32.8 km
Sursock Museum
30.3 km
Sisters Olive Trees of Noah
36.4 km
Citadel of Tripoli
62.2 km
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