Background

Byblos is a true microcosm of the civilizations that have populated Lebanon over the centuries. Arguably believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, the modern port city of Byblos is built upon multiple layers of ruins, dating back to as early as the Stone Age and extending to the more recent Ottoman days. A visit to Byblos is a chance to walk through the annals of Lebanese history and experience firsthand the diverse cultures that have made this area a mosaic of civilizations. Byblos is not simply a picturesque seaside town, but has a history that has been closely tied to the Mediterranean for millennia.

A major book (in French), Je m'appelle Byblos (My name is Byblos), by Jean-Pierre Thiollet, H & D, 2005. ISBN 2 914 266 04 9

Activities

• The Crusader Castle. 12th-century castle and enviros. A must-see in Byblos 6000 LL.
• Kings Tomb.
• Tower Temple.
• NE Gate.
• St John Church.
• The old souk Churches.
• Museum of wax.
• byblos old souk and port.
• Edde sands sea resort.

Food

Byblos is has many restaurants and cafes, including Lebanese, Chinese food and fast food restaurants such as Pizza Hut and McDonald. Byblos Old port is also home to many restaurants that mainly serve sea food from which you can have a great-panoramic sea view. The old souk in jbeil also contains many great side-way cafes and restaurants with a great view and a romantic atmosphere.

Byblos Fishing Club. This restaurant is located on the Mediterranean Sea. It's the perfect place to have a great lunch or romantic dinner. Decorating the walls are pictures of many international personalities that have visited the restaurant, including Brigitte Bardot, Jaques Chirac, Marlon Brando, Frank Sinatra and Fraga Iribarne.

Eating here is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Lebanon. The food is great, the atmosphere is wonderful-especially in Summer-and compared to many other restaurants in the area it is very affordable.

e.This restaurant is located in the old souk area. They have both a French and Italian Menu. They serve excellent Lebanese wines, and the Italian food is authentic and tasty.

• Flobby Diner, jbeil's crossroads voie 13, ☎ 09/944-977. International cuisine + bar
•    Locanda a la granda, Old Souk, Pepe Abed Street (Facing Castle Main Gate), ☎ +961 9 944 333. 12pm-1am. An International fusion-cuisine restaurant, rated the "Best restaurant in Town" by the New York Times. It sports two outdoor terraces with an amazing view of the city's historical ramparts and is located right at the end of the famous Old Souk. 20-30USD/pers.

Drinks

Jbeil has some open air bars and clubs. These pubs and bars provide music, drinks and great atmosphere, they are mainly located in the old souk. Prices mainly range from 10$ to 30$. And you can always go have a free walk among these side by side pubs.

Shopping

The old city of Byblos shelters a souk (market in Arabic) extremely popular for its souvenirs and antiques.

• Tower Temple.

Jbeil is also home to many supermarkets and stores and you can find everything from clothes to electronics to home appliances...