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Umayyad City Ruins: A Glimpse into Lebanon's Islamic Past

Explore the Umayyad City Ruins in Aanjar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Islamic architecture and history in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley.

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The Umayyad City Ruins in Aanjar, Lebanon, are a testament to the 8th-century Umayyad dynasty, showcasing a unique blend of Islamic and Roman architectural styles. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a chance to explore the well-preserved remains of a once-thriving commercial center.

A brief summary to Umayyad City Ruins

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain while exploring the ruins.
  • Visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
  • Take advantage of your visit by exploring nearby attractions like Baalbek, and the wineries in Beqaa Valley.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Anjar, head east on the Beirut-Damascus Highway. Walk until you see signs for Umayyad City Ruins. The walk should take approximately 10-15 minutes. There are no costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the main square in Anjar, take a shared taxi (service taxi) towards Baalbek. Inform the driver you want to stop at the Umayyad City Ruins. The ride should take about 10 minutes. The cost is approximately 1,000 LBP.

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Discover more about Umayyad City Ruins

Nestled in the Bekaa Valley, approximately 58 kilometers east of Beirut, the Umayyad City Ruins of Anjar offer a captivating journey into Lebanon's rich history. Founded in the 8th century by Caliph Al-Walid ibn Abdel Malek, this ancient city stands as a unique example of Umayyad urban planning and architectural design. Strategically located at the crossroads of two important trade routes, Anjar flourished as an inland commercial hub, connecting Beirut to Damascus and other Levantine cities. The city's name, originally Ayn Al-Jaar, meaning 'water from the rock,' reflects the streams flowing from the nearby mountains. The ruins reveal a meticulously planned layout, reminiscent of Roman cities, with a rectangular design and fortified walls. Visitors can explore the remnants of grand palaces, a mosque, bathhouses, and colonnaded streets, all showcasing a blend of Islamic, Roman, and Byzantine influences. The city's main axes, the Cardo Maximus and Decumanus Maximus, intersect at a tetrapylon, dividing the city into four quadrants. Despite its initial promise, Anjar's prosperity was short-lived. The city was partially destroyed and abandoned following the defeat of Caliph Ibrahim, son of Walid, in 744. Rediscovered by archaeologists in the 1940s, the ruins have since been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering invaluable insights into the Umayyad period and its cultural achievements.

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