Visiting Ras Baalbeck in Bekaa Valley

The name literally means “the head of Ba'albeck” in Arabic, signifying the town’s higher altitude relative to the City of the Sun. In ancient times, the village was called “Kunia,” and a shrine dedicated to Mar Kunia was built at the highest point in the town. Ras Ba'albeck was a famous Byzantine Episcopal seat and still retains some religious sites worth visiting. Most notable are the remnants of an old church in the center of town and the ruins of another church on the western side of the town. It is said that one of these churches was home to Saint Barbara. Today, the town’s main church boasts a Constantine Cross on its threshold. Ras B'aalbeck has retained its traditional crafts of making string instruments, such as the oud, guitar and violin.

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• Ras Ba’albeck Attractions:

  • Monuments
    • Mar Kunia Ancient Sanctuary
    • Al-Saydeh (Our Lady) Ancient Monastery
    • Saint Barbara Ancient
    • Church & Sanctuary
    • Mar Elian Ancient Church
    • Al-Ikhwat Al-Saghirat Heritage House
    • Mar Boulos (Saint Paul) Ancient Church
    • Ruins of an Old Mill
  • Natural Attractions
    1. Mar Touma Mountain
    2. Camping Area
    3. Public Garden 08-210499
  • Recreation
    1. Zoo 08-210371
    2. Nazih Ghadban Atelier for Musical Instruments
  • Restaurants
    1. Ras Ba'albeck Resthouse 03-249731
    2. Al-Qasr Resthouse & Restaurant 03-836086

Location:
Ras Ba'albeck, Baalbek/Baalbeck in Bekaa Valley, Lebanon
Distance from Beirut: 125km
Altitude: 1,000m