Explore Lebanon

Location:
Lebanon

Currency:
Lebanese pound (LBP)

Communications:
The telephone code for Lebanon: + 961

About:
The small Middle East mountainous country of Lebanon, first settled around 3000 BC by the Phoenicians, would eventually be absorbed into the Holy Roman Empire.

Additionally invaded and conquered over the centuries by the Assyrians, Ayyubids, Babylonians, Byzantines, Mamluks and Ottomans, it was Turkey's defeat in World War I, and the subsequent influence of the French that transformed the country into the modern land we know today.

Lebanon finally gained its independence in 1943, but was unfortunately ravaged by a 15-year civil war that thankfully ended in 1990.

At that war's conclusion, the Lebanese government and people finally established a more equitable political system, and began in ernest to rebuild the damaged infrastructure of their country.

Admittedly, some historic cultural and religious conflicts ( rather common in the Middle East ) do remain, and the country still struggles with needed reforms.

Today, Lebanon is again finding its rightful place in the world, and the world is paying attention. The historic cities of Beirut and Tripoli, and the remarkable Phoenician history ( with its well preserved ruins ) draw increasing numbers of visitors.

Recently, the country of Israel and Hezbollah forces within Lebanon are fighting a bloody war; one with thousands of civilians caught in the middle. On Monday, August 14th, 2006, a cease fire took effect, and hopefully, it will prevail until an international peace-keeping force is put in place.