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Umayyad City Ruins: A Glimpse into Early Islamic Civilization

Explore the Umayyad City Ruins in Anjar, Lebanon: A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing early Islamic architecture and history.

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The Umayyad City Ruins of Anjar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, offer a unique look into the 8th-century Umayyad dynasty. The city's well-preserved ruins showcase a blend of Islamic and Byzantine architectural styles, reflecting its historical significance as a commercial hub.

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 ruins.
  • Visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history and significance of Anjar.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Baalbek, Chateau Ksara, or Zahle.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Beirut, take a bus from the Cola station to Anjar. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. From the Anjar bus station, the ruins are walkable, or you can take a short taxi ride to the entrance. Bus fare from Beirut to Anjar is approximately LBP 5,000 - 10,000. A taxi from the Anjar bus station to the ruins should cost around LBP 10,000 - 15,000.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Beirut to Anjar. The journey takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip; a typical fare ranges from LBP 150,000 - 250,000. Taxis can also be hired from nearby cities such as Zahle or Baalbek.

  • Driving

    Anjar is located off Highway 30, about 60 kilometers east of Beirut. Follow the highway towards the Syrian border, and you'll find signs directing you to Anjar. Parking is available near the site entrance. Parking fees are approximately LBP 5,000 per hour.

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Discover more about Umayyad City Ruins

Nestled in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, the Umayyad City Ruins of Anjar stand as a remarkable testament to early Islamic civilization. Founded in the 8th century by Caliph Walid I, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating glimpse into the Umayyad dynasty's architectural and urban planning prowess. Anjar's strategic location at the crossroads of major trade routes, between Beirut and Damascus and connecting Homs to Tiberias, allowed it to flourish as a commercial center. The city's unique grid layout, influenced by Roman and Byzantine designs, sets it apart from other archaeological sites in Lebanon. Visitors can explore the ruins of grand palaces, bathhouses, a mosque, and a monumental tetrapylon, all showcasing the sophistication of Umayyad architecture and engineering. Despite its short-lived existence, Anjar provides invaluable insights into the daily life, culture, and governance of the Umayyad period. The city was abandoned in 744 AD after a defeat suffered by Caliph Ibrahim, son of Walid, and remained largely forgotten until its rediscovery by archaeologists in the 1940s. Today, Anjar attracts history enthusiasts and curious travelers from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the legacy of the Umayyad Empire.

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