Lebanon
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- Western Asia
- Capital
- Beirut
- Population
- 5.8 million (2024)
- Area
- 10,452 km²
- Languages
- Arabic, French
- Currency
- Lebanese pound (LBP)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +961
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Before you go
Overview
Lebanon also called the Lebanese Republic is located in Western Asia. The country was anciently known as Phoenicians.
By 2018 it recorded a population of 6.849 million and covers an area of 10,452 km2. The capital is Beirut.
Tripoli is home to the country’s largest crusader fortress called Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles. It is the second-largest city in the country after Byblos.
Third-largest city is Sidon.
Decorative umbrellas at an outdoor café in the Gemmayze neighbourhood of Beirut, Lebanon.
History
It was part of the Ottoman Empire between 1516 and 1918.
United Nations gave authority to France to govern the country in 1920.
France ruled until 1944 when they handed over power to the Lebanese government.
Food & culture
Lebanese culture is grounded in Arabic norms.
The major crops include wheat, barley, olives, vegetables, grapes and tobacco. The foods mainly comprise of fruits, whole grains, starches, seafood and vegetables.
Wildlife
The most common wildlife include wild cats, striped hyenas, Egyptian mongoose, jackals, least weasel, honey badger, Syrian brown bear, grey wolf, marbled polecat, jungle cat, caracal, red foxes, squirrels and porcupines.
Festivals & events
Independence Day is celebrated on 22nd November as a commemoration of when the country became independent from France.
Byblos International Festival is celebrated in Byblos with an international attendance including tourists.
Al Bustan Festival has activities such as music and art performance.
Other festivals include Eid al-Fitr, Beiteddine Arts Festival, Tyre and South Festival and Baalbeck International festival.
Things to see
The country is home to a variety of historical architectural marvels such as the ancient Roman ruins, ancient castles, limestone caves, historical Churches and Mosques.
The country also has beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean Sea with a continuous nightlife.
National Museum of Lebanon, MIM Mineral Museum and Sursok Museum in Beirut preserves the history and culture of the country.
Interesting facts
Byblos city in Mount Lebanon is one of the oldest consistently inhabited cities in the world and the country’s largest city.
Lebanese official language is Arabic; English is also a common language.
Cities & towns I’ve visited
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Lebanon
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.