Bibl, Lebanon

The city of Byblos attracts fans of ancient history in Lebanon. It is also one of the three most ancient cities on our planet. The earliest organized settlements in these places date back to the 7th Millennium BC. The city was formed under the now known name in the 4th Millennium BC. Byblos had the status of a major port city in the ancient era. Its inhabitants have worshiped the sun God Baal for hundreds of years. This cult is known for its incredible cruelty. Blood sacrifices were an integral part of the religious culture of the citizens.

The inhabitants of Byblos formed a unique written language already in the Second Millennium BC. Scientists have not been able to decipher it to this day. It is completely unlike any of the known ancient forms of writing. It is noteworthy that the city of Byblos is inhabited at present. About 3,000 people live there permanently. Their homes are located in the so-called new part of the city. The historic district attracts a significant portion of researchers and tourists.

You can see the ruins of many ancient buildings here. Some of them are more than 4,000 years old. The oldest building is considered to be a temple with obelisks. It was built in the 20th century BC. Researchers managed to find the necropolis of the kings. It was built around the same period. The amphitheater is a historical monument of a later period. Part of the beautiful Roman Street with columns is also preserved in the city. The most recent historical sites are considered to be the Crusader castle, as well as the Church of St. John. They were built in the 12th century. Next - Plovdiv