Aanjar - Touristic Sites - LebGuide.com (Lebanon Guide)

Home > Touristic Sites > Aanjar

Aanjar is completely different from any other archaeological experience in Lebanon. At other historical sites in the country, different times and civilizations are superimposed one on top of the other. Aanjar is exclusively one period, the Umayyad. Lebanon's other sites were founded millennia ago, but Aanjar is a relative new-comer, going back to the early 8th century AD.

Aanjar also stands unique as the only historic example of an inland commercial center. The city benefited from its strategic position on intersecting trade routes leading to Damascus, Homs, Baalbeck and the south. Today's name, Aanjar, comes from the Arabic Ain Gerrha, "the source of Gerrha", the name of an ancient city founded in this area during Hellenistic times.

Lebanon Guide: Touristic Sites: Map of Lebanon

Aanjar has a special beauty. It is a rectangular town, protected by walls, each wall has an impressive gate which is protected by towers. Nowadays, It is the only walled city remaining in Lebanon.

Due to the presence of an abundant source of water, Aanjar was widely known for its commercial exchange. It has been continuously invaded by many civilizations. Its ruins are being restored for it represents the remains of the first Moslem Suzerain, Byzantine, Roman and Ommayad period.

Discover these Travel Guides on Lebanon recommended by LebGuide.com on Amazon...