Verified Facts
Official NameLebanese Republic
CapitalBeirut
Population5.5 million
Area10,452 km² (4,036 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic, French
CurrencyLebanese pound (Ù„.Ù„)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionAsia / Western Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | First Arabic-language Journal of Medical Sciences | Established in 1991, it is a leading medical research publication in the Arab world |
| Sports | FIBA Asia Championship wins | Lebanon's national basketball team has won the championship three times, in 2001, 2005, and 2007 |
| Arts | Ba'albek International Festival | A major cultural event showcasing music, theater, and dance performances, held annually since 1956 |
| Development | Reconstruction of Beirut | After the civil war, Beirut underwent significant reconstruction, with notable projects including the Solidere development |
| Innovation | Tech hubs and startups | Lebanon is home to a growing tech industry, with hubs like Beirut Digital District and startups like Presella |
| Global Contributions | UN Peacekeeping | Lebanon has contributed troops to UN peacekeeping missions, including in Darfur and Congo |
| Education | American University of Beirut | A top-ranked university in the region, established in 1866, with a strong focus on research and academic excellence |
Cultural Treasures
- The Baalbek temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the largest and best-preserved Roman ruins in the world.
- The Byblos archaeological site, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases the city's rich history dating back to the Neolithic period.
- Khalil Gibran's literary and artistic works are a significant part of Lebanon's cultural heritage, with his book The Prophet being a classic of world literature.
- The traditional Dabke folk dance is a popular expression of Lebanese culture, often performed at social gatherings and celebrations.
- The National Museum of Beirut houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing Lebanon's history and cultural heritage.
People & Global Impact
- Fairouz, a renowned Lebanese singer, is considered a cultural icon in the Arab world, with a career spanning over six decades.
- The Lebanese diaspora has made significant contributions to the global community, with notable figures like Carlos Slim, Steve Jobs, and Hassan Kamel Al-Sabbah.
- Rafic Hariri, a former Lebanese prime minister, played a key role in the country's post-civil war reconstruction efforts and was a prominent businessman and philanthropist.
- The values of hospitality and generosity are deeply ingrained in Lebanese culture, with visitors often commenting on the warm welcome they receive from the locals.
What Visitors Love
- The hospitality of the Lebanese people, with visitors often commenting on the warm and welcoming nature of the locals.
- The cuisine, which is a unique blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, with popular dishes like tabbouleh, kibbeh, and falafel.
- The scenic beauty of the country, with its rugged coastline, mountainous terrain, and picturesque villages like Bcharre and Kfardebian.
- The vibrant nightlife of Beirut, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for young travelers.
- The rich history and cultural heritage of the country, with its many historical sites, museums, and cultural events.
- The ski resorts, like Faraya and Mzaar, which offer world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities in the winter months.
Hidden Gems
- The Jeita Grotto, a stunning limestone cave system, is a lesser-known natural wonder that is definitely worth visiting.
- The Qadisha Valley, a scenic and historic valley, is home to many ancient monasteries and churches, and offers breathtaking views and hiking trails.
- The Batroun region, with its beautiful coastline, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene, is a hidden gem that is waiting to be discovered.
- The Lebanese wine industry, which produces some excellent wines, including the famous Ksara and Massaya labels, is a lesser-known aspect of the country's culture and economy.