Anjar: The Hidden Gem of Lebanon

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [‘udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriid 'an 'ara alqa'imah, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين
  [sahatayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad 'an adfa', min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab baeidan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [uriid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallu']
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam si'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghaali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssaa'ah alwaahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [alssaa'ah al'ashirah walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alssabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [almasa']
• Eveningالليل
  [allayl]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn hu/hyi...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an turiini (‘alaa alkhariitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [matay ya'tii alhafilah alqaadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (‘iilaa ...)]

Anjar was founded in the early 8th century by the Umayyad Caliph Al-Walid I. The city was strategically located at the crossroads of two major trade routes, which facilitated commerce and communication throughout the region. The Umayyads envisioned Anjar as a prosperous commercial hub and a fortified stronghold.

Anjar is renowned for its well-preserved architectural layout. The city was built following a rectangular grid plan, reflecting the Roman-Byzantine urban design. The ruins include grand palaces, mosques, residential quarters, and public baths, all showcasing the unique fusion of Umayyad and Byzantine architectural styles.

One of the most impressive structures in Anjar is the Great Palace, which served as the administrative and ceremonial center of the city. The palace complex includes a large courtyard, audience halls, and private living quarters. The intricate stone carvings and mosaics provide insights into the artistic achievements of the Umayyad era.

The city's mosque is another significant landmark, situated at the heart of Anjar. Its design reflects early Islamic architectural principles, with a central courtyard surrounded by arcades. The adjacent minaret offers a glimpse into the religious practices of the time and served as a call to prayer for the city's inhabitants.

Anjar's strategic location made it a thriving economic center during the Umayyad period. The bustling souks (markets) were filled with traders and merchants from across the region. Goods such as textiles, spices, and precious metals were exchanged, contributing to the city's prosperity and cultural exchange.

The city's decline began in the mid-8th century following the fall of the Umayyad Caliphate. Anjar was abandoned and fell into ruin, with its once-grand structures gradually deteriorating over the centuries. The reasons for the city's abandonment remain a topic of historical debate, with theories ranging from economic decline to natural disasters.

Anjar was rediscovered in the 20th century by archaeologists, who were intrigued by its unique blend of Umayyad and Byzantine architecture. Extensive excavation and restoration efforts have since been undertaken to preserve the site. Today, Anjar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors and scholars from around the world.

The modern town of Anjar, located near the ancient ruins, is home to a vibrant Armenian-Lebanese community. The town hosts cultural festivals and events that celebrate its rich heritage, including traditional music, dance, and cuisine. These festivities provide a lively contrast to the serene archaeological site and offer visitors a deeper understanding of the region's cultural tapestry.

Anjar is located in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon, about 58 kilometers east of Beirut. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. From Beirut, you can travel to Anjar by car, taxi, or bus. The drive typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours via the Beirut-Damascus Highway. Buses and shared taxis (service taxis) are available from Beirut to Chtaura, a nearby town, from where you can take a local taxi to Anjar.

Anjar is a small town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local taxis are available. Renting a car is another convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the Bekaa Valley region. Public buses and minibuses connect Anjar with nearby towns and cities, providing an affordable transportation option. Always agree on the fare with the taxi driver before starting your journey.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), but US Dollars are also widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Anjar, and they dispense both Lebanese Pounds and US Dollars. It is wise to have smaller denominations for convenience.

Anjar is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Anjar, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best practice.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Anjar. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or historical sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques or churches, dress conservatively and remove your shoes if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight nod of the head. Using a few words in Arabic, such as 'Marhaba' (Hello), is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Anjar like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Lebanese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient Umayyad ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants serving traditional Lebanese cuisine. Consider visiting nearby wineries in the Bekaa Valley for a taste of local wine.