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Mysterious Walks Along the Ruins of Baalbek Temples
Published on February 13, 2012 by Vanessa Boiser
Country: Lebanon 
The Experience
The Baalbek ruins located in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, are one of the most significant architectural wonders of the ancient world. This area in Lebanon could be likened to a cradle of life. Many of the world’s greatest civilizations thrived here including the Phoenicians and Romans. Baalbek is a great place to visit in Lebanon if you like puzzles from the past, as it's literally layer upon layer of ancient ruins.
One of the most impressive places to visit in Baalbek is the Temple of Jupiter from1st century A.D. The Temple of Jupiter is one of those places that can shock and awe simply from its grand size and soaring columns, but is greater magnified when you realize that it was driven to such heights back in 1 A.D. Here enormous limestone platforms called megaliths came together centuries ago and have left a lasting impression to all who have followed.
Before the Phoenicians and Romans arrived at the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon though, others had beaten them to the punch, having settled their earlier. What they left behind has puzzled everyone since, the largest stone construction block in the entire world. Baalbek is a favorite of scientists and conspiracy theorists who at present, debate that there is no way that the technology in the ancient times could have moved the massive limestone blocks that were so perfectly arranged and fit together in the ruins of Baalbek Temples, suggesting alien technology intervention. This is what appeals most to Baalbek Temple visitors.
One of the most impressive places to visit in Baalbek is the Temple of Jupiter from1st century A.D. The Temple of Jupiter is one of those places that can shock and awe simply from its grand size and soaring columns, but is greater magnified when you realize that it was driven to such heights back in 1 A.D. Here enormous limestone platforms called megaliths came together centuries ago and have left a lasting impression to all who have followed.
Before the Phoenicians and Romans arrived at the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon though, others had beaten them to the punch, having settled their earlier. What they left behind has puzzled everyone since, the largest stone construction block in the entire world. Baalbek is a favorite of scientists and conspiracy theorists who at present, debate that there is no way that the technology in the ancient times could have moved the massive limestone blocks that were so perfectly arranged and fit together in the ruins of Baalbek Temples, suggesting alien technology intervention. This is what appeals most to Baalbek Temple visitors.
When to Go to Temples Of Baalbek
The best time to visit Lebanon's Baalbek ruins is from July to August, when days are warm and there is not much rain with cool evenings. Also, the ruins of Baalbek temples is host to a number of festivals during this time, one of which is the Summer Baalbek International Festival, when popular international artists come to the festival to entertain.
Generally, travel to Lebanese destinations like the ruins of Baalbek temples is a peaceful and pleasant undertaking, especially because English is widely spoken. The people are quite friendly and the country hosts very good places to wine and dine, especially in the Zahle area.
To get to the ruins of Baalbek temples, catch a flight to Beirut, Lebanon. The Baalbek ruins are open from 8:30am and closes 30 minutes just before sunset. You might also want to visit quaint dining places in this region after heading to the Baalbek temples. Guides are also available at an hourly rate. Be sure to check for any travel advisories in Lebanon, because of possible unstable political conditions.
Generally, travel to Lebanese destinations like the ruins of Baalbek temples is a peaceful and pleasant undertaking, especially because English is widely spoken. The people are quite friendly and the country hosts very good places to wine and dine, especially in the Zahle area.
To get to the ruins of Baalbek temples, catch a flight to Beirut, Lebanon. The Baalbek ruins are open from 8:30am and closes 30 minutes just before sunset. You might also want to visit quaint dining places in this region after heading to the Baalbek temples. Guides are also available at an hourly rate. Be sure to check for any travel advisories in Lebanon, because of possible unstable political conditions.
Odds n' Ends
If you wish to visit the ruins of Baalbek and marvel at the architectural ingenuity and the down right unexplainable, wear light and conservative clothing. Do not wear shorts and other revealing clothes.
There are no vaccinations required but make sure that you have current Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid booster just in case you are get a bit adventurous with eating street food. Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes because you are going to walk a lot. You may also bring sunblock and bottled water to keep you from getting sunburned and dehydrated. The US dollar is widely accepted and is fairly easy to withdraw from ATMs.
There are no vaccinations required but make sure that you have current Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid booster just in case you are get a bit adventurous with eating street food. Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes because you are going to walk a lot. You may also bring sunblock and bottled water to keep you from getting sunburned and dehydrated. The US dollar is widely accepted and is fairly easy to withdraw from ATMs.
Places to Stay Nearby
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THIS FIVE STAR HOTEL IS SITUATED ON THE FAMOUS BERDAWNI RIVER AND IS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF DOWNTOWN ZAHLE. THE HOTEL WITH ITS 105 LUXURY ... 20 miles away
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Up the scenic Mount Lebanon at 2000 meters high, InterContinental Mountain Resort & Spa is set in the Mzaar 2000 ski complex and located approximately ... 21 miles away
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