Lake Qaraoun, Artificial lake in Beqaa Valley, Lebanon.
Lake Qaraoun is an artificial reservoir in the Bekaa Valley created by a concrete dam that holds back water from the Litani River. The lake occupies a wide basin surrounded by agricultural land and serves multiple purposes across the region.
The lake came into being during the 1950s when dam construction transformed the valley and created a large water storage system. This project enabled new approaches to water management and power generation across the region.
The lake carries a name rooted in Arabic, reflecting the local landscape and regional identity. Today visitors can observe how the water body and surrounding areas remain central to the daily life of people living in the valley.
The lake is accessible by road with views across the water from various points along its shores. Visitors should be aware that water levels vary with seasons and usage, affecting how the site appears.
The lake serves as a stopping point for migratory birds traveling long distances, where they rest and feed during their journeys. In winter months, observers can spot rare bird species that are otherwise difficult to encounter.
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