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Umayyad City Ruins: A Glimpse into Early Islamic Civilization

Explore the ancient Umayyad City Ruins in Anjar, 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 Anjar, Lebanon, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 8th century. This ancient city offers a unique insight into the urban planning and architecture of the Umayyad dynasty, showcasing a blend of Islamic and Byzantine influences. Wander through the ruins of palaces, a mosque, and bathhouses, and imagine life in this once-thriving commercial center.

A brief summary to Umayyad City Ruins

  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain while exploring the extensive ruins.
  • Visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Baalbek, Chateau Ksara, and the Anjar Water Trail for a comprehensive experience of the Bekaa Valley.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Beirut, take the Beirut-Damascus International Road (Route 1) eastward towards the Bekaa Valley. Follow signs for Chtaura and continue east until you reach Anjar. The journey is approximately 60 kilometers and takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the site. Be aware that traffic conditions in Lebanon can be challenging.

  • Public Transport

    Buses frequently depart from Beirut's Cola station to Anjar. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From the bus stop in Anjar, the ruins are a short taxi ride away. The cost of a taxi should be around LBP 20,000 - 30,000.

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Discover more about Umayyad City Ruins

The Umayyad City Ruins in Anjar, nestled in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, provide a captivating journey into the early Islamic period. Founded in the 8th century during the reign of Caliph Walid I, this UNESCO World Heritage site stands as a unique example of Umayyad urban planning and architectural prowess. The city's strategic location at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, connecting Beirut to Damascus and Homs to Tiberias, contributed to its historical and commercial significance. Discovered by archaeologists in the 1940s, the ruins reveal a fortified city with a rectangular layout, surrounded by walls and flanked by forty towers. The city's design reflects a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic influences, showcasing a sophisticated understanding of urban development. Key features include the grand palace, mosque, bathhouses, and a marketplace, all meticulously planned and constructed. Walking through the ruins, visitors can explore the Cardo Maximus and Decumanus Maximus, the main north-south and east-west axes, respectively, reminiscent of Roman city planning. The Great Palace of Walid I, with its impressive courtyard and intricate stonework, offers a glimpse into the opulence of the Umayyad dynasty. The remains of the mosque and bathhouses further illustrate the city's comprehensive infrastructure and its role as a center of commerce and culture. Anjar's relatively short lifespan adds to its allure. Partially destroyed and abandoned in 744 AD after the defeat of Caliph Ibrahim, the city remains a unique and well-preserved example of 8th-century town planning. Today, the Umayyad City Ruins attract tourists, history enthusiasts, and scholars from around the world, offering a unique and immersive experience of Lebanon's rich past.

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