Lebanon flag

Lebanon

History

Ottoman rule began, with Mount Lebanon left to local emirs.
Mount Lebanon was split into Christian and Druze districts after sectarian conflict.
European powers imposed an autonomous province under a Christian governor.
France proclaimed Greater Lebanon, adding Beirut and the Bekaa to the mountain.
A constitution set out Lebanon's basic framework of government.
Lebanon declared independence, a decisive step toward modern statehood.
French mandate ended placed the territory under outside administration before modern independence.
Withdrawal of French forces changed control of the territory.
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CapitalBeirut
Population5.5M
Area10,452 km2
CurrencyLebanese pound

Short facts

RegionWestern Asia / Middle East / Levant
LanguageArabic, French
Time zoneEET (UTC+2)
Drives onRight

Worth seeing

  • Beirut: Resilient, cosmopolitan city known as the Paris of the Middle East, with incredible food and nightlife.
  • Baalbek: Magnificent Roman temple complex among the largest and best preserved in the world.
  • Jeita Grotto: Spectacular cave system with underground rivers and stalactite chambers.

Find a city in Lebanon

Showing all cities

Beirut thumbnailBeirutCity

Planning questions

What is Lebanon known for?Beirut, Baalbek, Jeita Grotto.
What is the capital?Beirut.
Which language is useful?Arabic, French.
When is the national day?22 November.
How should I browse it here?Start with the facts, jump to linked cities, then check events and topics.

Upcoming events

Use Beirut as the first planning anchor for Lebanon, then compare the city, food and worth-seeing notes on this page.

Food & drink

Kebab thumbnailKebabSignature dishCoffee thumbnailCoffeeLocal drink

Known for

BeirutBaalbekJeita GrottoBeirutKebabCoffee
Eurovision Song Contest thumbnailMusic & CultureFestivals, concerts and cultural calendars.Asia thumbnailAsia outdoorsLandscapes, routes, seasons and protected nature.