Byblos

PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR

Byblos (known also by its Arabic name Jbail) is said to be the oldest continuously inhabited town in the world. It is also known as the birthplace of the modern alphabet.  With its picturesque fishing harbour (right), Crusader castle and fascinating souk, it is understandably one of Lebanon's most visited destinations.  It may be only 40 kilometres from Beirut, but it feels like another world!

From the ramparts of the Crusader castle there is a fine view over the extensive ancient ruins (pictured below), which date back some 4,000 years. 

Your visit will include the Romanesque-style Church of St John the Baptist, built by the Crusaders in 1115, the castle and the ancient city, before strolling through the souk to the harbour (the perfect place for lunch*).  A popular shop in the lower souk is the unique 'Memoir Du Temps' [more], where you can buy ancient fossilised fish, each with its own certificate of authenticity.

Includes private transportation, guide and entrance fees.

* There are several good restaurants overlooking the harbour, offering seafood specialities and a wide variety of mezze.  Most famous is the Byblos Fishing Club, whose walls are adorned with signed photographs of the many Hollywood stars, politicians and other celebrities who came to Byblos in the 1950s and 1960s when Lebanon was one of the Mediterranean's most glamorous places for the 'jet set'.