Temple of Jupiter, Roman temple in Baalbek, Lebanon.
The Temple of Jupiter is a Roman shrine in Baalbek built with massive stone blocks and soaring columns that seem to touch the sky. The complex spreads across a large site with several connected areas, where remains of altars and shrines are still visible.
Construction started during the early Roman period under Emperor Augustus and was later completed under Emperor Hadrian. The site was expanded and modified over generations before eventually being abandoned.
The temple shows how Roman worship practices blended with local Phoenician customs, visible today in the stonework and layout of the sacred spaces. Visitors notice how different peoples left their mark on this place over time.
The site is accessible, but it is best to arrive early to avoid heat and enjoy the best light for exploring. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as there is little shade across the large open area.
The largest stone blocks in the temple weigh around 800 tons and are longer than a sports field – it is hard to believe people moved these without modern machinery. These colossal stones form the foundation and show the remarkable engineering of the Romans.
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