10+ Little-Known Ancient Sites in Lebanon You Probably Didn't Know Existed
When we speak about the archeologic and touristic aspects of Lebanon, we immediately tend to link the heritage of this Phoenician country to just a few historical landmarks such as Baalbek, Tyre, and Jbeil.
And yet, these are not the only ancient sites in Lebanon worth visiting and inviting our tourists to.
Yes, there has been a major disregard by the tourism and archeological authorities in Lebanon to acknowledge the value of these sites; remnants of the Roman, Greek, and Phoenician eras and legacies.
It has been as such for so long that these sites have been swallowed by the heavy fog of oblivion.
It isn't the case though with the residents of these areas. They are proud of what their towns carry of ancient history, as we all should be, and they have been wondering about the lack of care from the archeological and touristic authorities; some have been even requesting it for a while now.
Henceforth, we have decided to step in today and do our part in giving due recognition to various of these little-known and unattended ancient sites in our country.
#1 Qsarnaba Roman Temple – Bekaa District
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Qsarnaba , that Lebanese village located in Beqaa district, is still preserving its legacy and cultural wealth like many other Lebanese towns. Qsarnaba Roman Temple is one of the sites that should be visited by both tourists and locals given its archeological value.
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As this site is fenced, gates should be opened by one of the villagers. However, getting there is very easy if you take the main Niha road and continue eastward for 2 KMs. Don't you worry! The signs will lead you to the Roman Temple of Qsarnaba .
#2 Ruins of St. Louis Castle – Saida District
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You may have been to Saida (Sidon) before and, if so, you have more likely visited the Crusader Sea Castle also known as Qala’at Al Bahr . However, you haven't probably been to the Ruins of St. Louis Castle that was built nearby during the 10 th century by King Louis IX.
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It was actually the 1 st inland castle built in Saida and was later on ruined by the Mameleek during their ruling. St. Louis Castle is unfortunately unknown to many and it is certainly worth the visit, not only because of its historical and architectural value but also given the view you get to see when you’re on top of it.
Reaching this castle is very easy. All you need to do is take the stairs east of the Fakhr El-Dine palace and turn right to explore it.
#3 Msaylha Fort – Batroun
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Maybe you have heard about it before or at least saw it on your way to Beirut or Tripoli. You may have also said to yourself “this fortress looks incredible” but perhaps you had little time to stop by and pay this archeological piece a visit.
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Msaylha Fort is actually located on a rocky hill next to the coastal highway of Batroun, which makes it visible to everyone but, unfortunately, attended by few.
It is said that this fortress was built by prince Fakhr El-Dine Al Maani II during the 17 th century.
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The Nahr Al Jawz (Walnut River), which you get to see as you take the stone stairs, is certainly worthy of your time. Msaylha Fort is very accessible either by car or foot!
#4 Douma – Batroun Mountains
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While you may know Douma for its authentic Lebanese restaurants, you might ignore that this beautiful town, which is located in the heart of Batroun Mountains, marked the passage of the Ottomans, Greeks, and Romans.
The Ottomans actually left it with ruins, which you can see as you hike around the town.
Perched at 1000 meters above sea level, Douma carries a name given by the Greeks and which means "palace."