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Umayyad City Ruins: A Glimpse into Early Islamic Civilization

Discover the ancient Umayyad City Ruins in Aanjar, Lebanon: a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing early Islamic architecture and urban planning.

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Explore the remarkably well-preserved Umayyad City Ruins in Aanjar, Lebanon, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 8th century. Wander through the remnants of this ancient city, offering a unique insight into the architecture, urban planning, and daily life during the Umayyad Caliphate.

A brief summary to Umayyad City Ruins

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and requires walking.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the site in a peaceful setting.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for an enriched experience and to gain insightful historical knowledge.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on-site.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Beirut, take the Beirut-Damascus Highway towards Zahle. Follow the signs towards Anjar, which is approximately 60 kilometers from Beirut. The drive takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the site. Be prepared for possible checkpoints along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Buses to Anjar frequently depart from Beirut's Cola station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From the bus stop in Anjar, the ruins are a short taxi ride away. Taxis are readily available in Anjar. Expect to pay around LBP 20,000 - 30,000 for the taxi ride to the ruins.

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Discover more about Umayyad City Ruins

The Umayyad City Ruins in Aanjar, located in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon, offer a captivating journey into the past. Founded in the early 8th century by Caliph Walid I, this UNESCO World Heritage site represents a unique and well-preserved example of Umayyad urban planning and architecture. The city, originally named Ayn Al-Jaar, meaning "water from the rock," was strategically built as a commercial hub at the crossroads of two important trade routes. As you explore the ruins, you'll discover a meticulously planned city featuring a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic architectural influences. Key structures include the grand palace, a central mosque, bathhouses, and intricate mosaics, all testaments to the Umayyad dynasty's sophisticated urban design. The city's layout, with its main north-south axis (Cardo Maximus) and east-west street (Decumanus Maximus), reflects a Roman city plan. Despite its strategic importance, Anjar was short-lived, as it was partially destroyed and abandoned after the defeat of Caliph Walid I's son in 744. Rediscovered by archaeologists in the late 1940s, the ruins offer a glimpse into a pivotal period in history, showcasing the fusion of cultures and the architectural prowess of the Umayyad civilization.

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