Baalbek: The Ancient Jewel of Lebanon

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeمع السلامة
  [maa assalama]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala ar-rahb was-sa'a]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأرغب في رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [arghab fi ru'yat al-qa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahhtain!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassal bitalib!]
• I'm lostضاعت الطريق
  [da'at al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أرغب في شراء...
  [arghab fi shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallu']
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huwa thamanuhu?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd al-si'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (عشرة)
  [al-nisf ba'd (ashrah)]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-subah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [al-dhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barhah]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ال...؟
  [ayn al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata yaati al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Baalbek, also known as Heliopolis during the Roman period, has roots that trace back to the Phoenicians, who initially settled the area. The site was originally a place of worship dedicated to the god Baal, which later evolved through various cultural influences over millennia.

During the Hellenistic period, Baalbek came under the influence of the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires. It was during this time that the city began to be known as Heliopolis, or 'City of the Sun'. The Greeks contributed significantly to the architectural and cultural fabric of the city.

In 64 BCE, Baalbek was annexed by the Roman Empire. Under Roman rule, the city saw the construction of some of its most magnificent temples, including the Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Bacchus, and the Temple of Venus. These structures are renowned for their grand scale and intricate design, making Baalbek one of the greatest sanctuaries of the Roman world.

With the rise of the Byzantine Empire, Baalbek transitioned into a Christian city. Several of its pagan temples were repurposed for Christian worship. The city maintained its importance as a religious center and continued to thrive under Byzantine rule.

In the 7th century, Baalbek was conquered by Muslim armies and became part of the Umayyad Caliphate. The city experienced a period of Islamic architectural and cultural influence, including the construction of mosques and fortifications. It remained an important center of trade and culture throughout the medieval period.

Baalbek came under Ottoman control in the 16th century. During this period, the city saw a mixture of neglect and intermittent restoration. It wasn't until the 19th and 20th centuries that Baalbek began to attract significant attention from Western archaeologists and historians, leading to extensive excavations and restorations that unveiled much of its ancient splendor.

Today, Baalbek is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. Its ancient ruins are a testament to its rich and diverse history, drawing visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its monumental temples and gain insight into the various cultures that have shaped this extraordinary city.

Baalbek is located in the Beqaa Valley of Lebanon. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, approximately 85 kilometers away. From Beirut, you can take a taxi or a bus to Baalbek. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions. Private car rentals are also available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Baalbek is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are available and are a convenient way to get around. Public buses and minibuses (known as 'service' cars) operate within the city and connect to nearby towns. Renting a car is an option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace, but be aware that driving can be challenging due to local traffic conditions.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), although US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Baalbek, and it is a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.

Baalbek is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be vigilant about your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay aware of your surroundings. Political tensions can sometimes flare up, so it is wise to stay informed about the current situation before and during your visit.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Baalbek. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Make sure to know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic before your trip.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing out of respect for local customs. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A warm smile and a 'Hello' will go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Baalbek 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 city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient Roman temples, which are some of the best-preserved in the world. For a unique experience, attend one of the Baalbek International Festival events, which feature performances by international and local artists in a stunning historical setting.