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The Trilithon at Baalbek: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering

Marvel at the Trilithon in Baalbek, colossal stones that showcase the engineering genius of the ancient world and its rich history.

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The Trilithon at Baalbek, part of the Temple of Jupiter Baal complex, features three colossal stones weighing approximately 800 tons each. These megaliths, showcasing unparalleled ancient gigantism, are a testament to the extraordinary engineering skills of the past.

A brief summary to Trilithon de Baalbek

  • 2643+M48, Baalbek, LB

Local tips

  • Visit during spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) for mild and pleasant weather.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the large archaeological site.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the ruins.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Beirut, take a taxi or Uber to Cola Station. From there, catch a minivan to Baalbek, changing in Chtaura. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. The minivans will drop you near the Baalbek Archaeological Site. Expect to pay around $5-6 USD for the minivan trip from Beirut to Baalbek. The entrance fee to the Baalbek ruins is $10 USD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Beirut to Baalbek. Negotiate the fare before setting off. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Expect to pay around $95-$120 USD for a one-way taxi from Beirut to Baalbek.

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Discover more about Trilithon de Baalbek

The Trilithon, also known as the Three Stones, is part of the podium of the Temple of Jupiter Baal in Baalbek. Each stone measures approximately 19 meters long, 4.2 meters high, and 3.6 meters thick, with a weight estimated between 750 and 800 tonnes. These stones are part of a supporting stone layer with stones weighing an estimated 350 tonnes. Located atop Tel Baalbek, the Trilithon forms the western aspect of the Roman platform. How these massive blocks were moved from the quarry to their current location remains a mystery. Some theories suggest the use of rollers and earthen ramps, while others propose more advanced, lost technologies. In addition to the Trilithon, the nearby quarry contains other notable monoliths, including the Stone of the Pregnant Woman, weighing approximately 1,000 tons, the Stone of the South, estimated at 1,242 tons, and the Forgotten Stone, which weighs around 1,650 tons. These stones, intended for the Jupiter Baal complex, were never moved from the quarry. The Baalbek temple complex, including the Trilithon, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its outstanding universal value and contribution to understanding ancient civilizations. The site showcases a blend of architectural styles and cultural influences, reflecting its history under Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Umayyad, and Crusader rule.

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