Byblos: The Ancient Gem of Lebanon

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath 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 alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahtein!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!مساعدة!
  [musa'adah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atasil baltabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضاعت مني
  [laqad da'at minni]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم تكلفة؟
  [kam taklifa?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsu'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [alnusf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [aleasr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thulatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• 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 tureeni (ala alkhareetah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilat altalya?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Byblos, known locally as Jbeil, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Archaeological evidence suggests that the city was founded around 8800 BC and has been continuously occupied since around 5000 BC. It was originally a small fishing village, which grew due to its strategic coastal location.

Byblos is often credited with being the place where the first alphabet was created. The Phoenicians, who were skilled sailors and traders, developed the Phoenician alphabet around 1050 BC. This significant innovation laid the groundwork for modern alphabets and greatly influenced ancient scripts such as Greek and Latin.

During the Phoenician era, Byblos thrived as a major trading hub. It was a crucial center for the export of cedar wood, papyrus, and other valuable commodities. The city's wealth is evident from the impressive archaeological remains, including grand temples and royal tombs, which testify to its ancient prosperity.

Byblos had a strong cultural and trade connection with Ancient Egypt. The exchange of goods and ideas led to significant Egyptian influence in Byblos, as seen in the archaeological findings of Egyptian artifacts and inscriptions. The Temple of the Obelisks, dedicated to the Egyptian god Reshef, is a notable example of this influence.

Byblos continued to flourish under Greek and later Roman rule. The city was known as Gibelet during this period. The remains of grand Roman structures, such as the Roman Theatre and a well-preserved Roman road, illustrate the city's continued importance and prosperity during these eras.

In the 12th century, Byblos came under the control of the Crusaders, who built the impressive Byblos Castle, a significant military fortification that still stands today. The castle was a key strategic point during the Crusades, reflecting the city's enduring importance through various historical epochs.

Today, Byblos is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern life. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its well-preserved archaeological sites, charming old souks, and bustling harbor. The city's cultural heritage is showcased in its museums, festivals, and ongoing archaeological research.

Byblos, located about 37 kilometers north of Beirut, is easily accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services to reach Byblos, which typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Charles Helou Bus Station in Beirut to Byblos. The bus ride offers a scenic view of the Mediterranean coastline and usually takes about an hour.

Byblos is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street or booked via phone. Buses and minibuses (servees) operate within the city and connect to nearby areas. Renting a car is also an option, but keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, particularly during peak hours. Parking might be limited in certain parts of the city.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), although US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Byblos, so withdrawing cash is convenient. Be aware of currency exchange rates and fees when using credit cards or exchanging money.

Byblos is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. While Byblos does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended. It is also advisable to keep copies of important documents such as your passport and travel insurance.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Byblos has a local police station and medical facilities to handle emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or clinic to your accommodation.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or mosques, dress conservatively and follow any specific guidelines. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful towards other passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly smile and 'Marhaba' (hello) 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 Byblos like a local, explore the bustling souks where you can find traditional Lebanese goods and souvenirs. Visit the old port for a taste of local life and enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor-side restaurants. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s rich history. Don’t miss the Byblos Castle and the ancient ruins that offer a glimpse into the city's storied past. For a unique experience, attend one of the local festivals, such as the Byblos International Festival, which features a range of cultural performances.