Lebanon is a small country located in the Middle East, bordered by Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south. Its capital and largest city is Beirut. Lebanon has a rich history and culture, having been home to various civilizations and empires throughout its history. It is known for its diverse society, with various religious and ethnic groups living together, and its cuisine, which is a fusion of various Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Despite its small size, Lebanon is also a center for business and commerce in the region. However, the country has faced various political and economic challenges, including a long civil war and ongoing tensions with neighboring countries.

ABOUT

Lebanon, officially known as the Republic of Lebanon, is a country in Western Asia situated between Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south. It covers an area of 10,452 square kilometers, making it the second smallest country in continental Asia, with a population of more than five million people. The country’s location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Basin and the Arabian hinterland has contributed to its rich history and diverse religious identity, with Arabic being the official language and French also formally recognized. Lebanese Arabic is used alongside Modern Standard Arabic throughout the country.

Evidence of civilization in Lebanon dates back to 5,000 BCE, and from around 3200-539 BCE, it was home to the thriving Phoenician civilization before being annexed by various Near Eastern empires. In 64 BCE, the region was conquered by the Roman Empire, and it became a major center for Christianity under the Byzantine Empire. In the 7th century, the Muslim conquest of the Levant established caliphal rule, and the 11th century saw the start of the Crusades and the establishment of Crusader States in the region. However, it was later reclaimed by the Ayyubids and Mamluks before being ceded to the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century.

Under Sultan Abdulmejid I, the first Lebanese protostate took form in the 19th century as the Mount Lebanon Mutasarrifate, created as a home for the Maronite Christians under the Tanzimat reforms. Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, the five Ottoman provinces that constitute modern-day Lebanon came under the French Mandate for Syria and the Lebanon. Under this mandate, the French-ruled predecessor state of Greater Lebanon was established. Following the invasion and occupation of the French Third Republic by Nazi Germany during World War II, French rule over the region weakened.

Upon gaining its independence from Free France in 1943, Lebanon established a unique confessionalist form of government, with the state’s major religious sects being apportioned specific political powers. However, the country’s stability was short-lived and was shattered by the outbreak of large-scale fighting in the Lebanese Civil War between various political and sectarian factions. During this period, Lebanon was also subjected to overlapping foreign military occupations by Syria from 1976 to 2005 and by Israel from 1985 to 2000. Since the end of the war, there have been extensive efforts to revive the economy and rebuild national infrastructure.

Lebanon is considered a developing country, ranking 112th on the Human Development Index and classified as an upper middle-income state. However, the country has recently faced significant challenges, including the Lebanese liquidity crisis, corruption, political instability, widespread shortages, high unemployment, and poverty. The World Bank has defined the economic crisis in Lebanon as one of the worst in the world since the 19th century. Despite the country’s small size, Lebanese culture is renowned both in the Middle East and globally, primarily due to its extensive diaspora. Lebanon is a founding member of the United Nations and the Arab League, and a member of the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

Lebanon, officially known as the Republic of Lebanon, is a country located in Western Asia. The name “Lebanon” is believed to have been derived from the Semitic root “lbn,” which means “white,” possibly referring to the snow-capped mountains of Lebanon. In ancient times, the land of Lebanon was referred to as “Lubnan” or “Lubnanon” in various ancient languages, including Akkadian, Hebrew, and Aramaic.

The name “Lebanon” has also been associated with the ancient city of Byblos (known as “Jubayl” in Arabic), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located along the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon. Byblos was a major center of trade and commerce in the ancient world and was known for its production of papyrus, which was used for writing.

Throughout history, Lebanon has been a crossroads of civilizations and cultures, with various empires and civilizations leaving their mark on the land. The Phoenician civilization, which flourished in Lebanon between 3200-539 BC, was known for its seafaring and trading prowess, and the Phoenicians were responsible for spreading their alphabet and language throughout the Mediterranean world.

Lebanon was later conquered by the Roman Empire, which made it a center of Christianity under the Byzantine Empire. In the 7th century, the Muslim conquest of the Levant established caliphal rule, and Lebanon was later ruled by various Islamic dynasties before being ceded to the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century.

Under Ottoman rule, the region was divided into administrative districts, including the Mount Lebanon Mutasarrifate, which was created in the 19th century as a home for Maronite Christians. Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, Lebanon came under French mandate until it gained independence in 1943.

Today, Lebanon is known for its rich history and cultural diversity, as well as its contributions to art, literature, and cuisine. Despite facing various economic and political challenges in recent years, Lebanon remains a proud and resilient nation.

HISTORY

Lebanon has a rich and complex history that dates back to 5000 BCE. The region has been home to numerous civilizations, empires, and religions, all of which have left their mark on the country’s culture and identity.

One of the most significant civilizations to emerge in Lebanon was the Phoenician civilization, which flourished from around 3200 to 539 BCE. The Phoenicians were seafaring people who established a network of city-states along the eastern Mediterranean coast. They were known for their trade and commerce, as well as their impressive maritime skills.

The region later came under the control of various Near Eastern empires, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, and Greeks. In 64 BCE, the Roman Empire conquered the region, and Lebanon became a major center for Christianity under the Byzantine Empire.

In the 7th century, the Muslim conquest of the Levant established caliphal rule. The 11th century saw the start of the Crusades and the establishment of Crusader States in the region, only for it to be later reclaimed by the Ayyubids and Mamluks before being ceded to the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century.

Under Sultan Abdulmejid I, the first Lebanese protostate took form in the 19th century as the Mount Lebanon Mutasarrifate, created as a home for the Maronite Christians under the Tanzimat reforms.

Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, the five Ottoman provinces constituting modern-day Lebanon came under the French Mandate for Syria and the Lebanon, under which its French-ruled predecessor state of Greater Lebanon was established.

Upon gaining its independence from Free France in 1943, Lebanon established a unique confessionalist form of government, with the state’s major religious sects being apportioned specific political powers.

Lebanon initially enjoyed a period of relative stability. However, this stability was short-lived and was ultimately shattered by the outbreak of large-scale fighting in the Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990) between various political and sectarian factions. During this period, Lebanon was also subjected to overlapping foreign military occupations by Syria from 1976 to 2005 and by Israel from 1985 to 2000.

Since the end of the war, there have been extensive efforts to revive the economy and rebuild national infrastructure. However, Lebanon continues to face many challenges, including political instability, corruption, economic crisis, and poverty. Despite these challenges, Lebanon’s rich culture and history continue to be celebrated both in the Middle East and globally.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

Lebanon has a unique confessionalist system of government, which is based on the principle of power-sharing among the major religious sects in the country. The President must be a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of the Parliament a Shia Muslim. The Parliament has 128 members, and seats are distributed among religious communities proportionally. This sectarian-based political system was established to prevent any one religious group from dominating the government and to ensure that all groups are represented in the political process.

Lebanon’s political system has been characterized by political polarization, corruption, and instability. The country has been affected by civil wars, political assassinations, and foreign interventions. Since the end of the Lebanese Civil War in 1990, the country has been able to maintain relative stability, but it has been challenged by numerous crises such as the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in 2005, which led to the Cedar Revolution and the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon, and the recent economic crisis and protests.

Lebanon’s government is divided into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial. The President is the head of the executive branch and is responsible for appointing the Prime Minister and Cabinet. The Parliament is the legislative branch and is responsible for making laws. The judiciary is independent and is responsible for interpreting the laws.

Lebanon is a democratic country, but there are concerns about the transparency and fairness of elections and the influence of sectarianism on politics. The country has a vibrant civil society, and protests and demonstrations are common means of expressing grievances and demanding change. Despite these challenges, Lebanon’s political system remains a unique example of power-sharing and coexistence among different religious communities.

ECONOMY

Lebanon has a market economy with a strong commercial tradition and a highly skilled workforce. The services sector, including banking and tourism, is the largest sector of the economy, followed by industry and agriculture. Lebanon is known for its high level of entrepreneurship, innovation, and intellectual capital, as well as its significant diaspora community.

However, the country has been facing a severe economic crisis in recent years. The Lebanese currency has lost more than 90% of its value since late 2019, and the country is experiencing hyperinflation, with prices of goods and services skyrocketing. This has led to widespread poverty, unemployment, and social unrest.

Lebanon has traditionally been an important center for banking and finance in the Middle East, with a highly developed financial sector. However, the banking sector has also been affected by the economic crisis, with many banks struggling to maintain their solvency. The government has defaulted on its foreign debt obligations and has been unable to secure financing from international institutions due to the lack of a credible economic reform plan.

Agriculture in Lebanon is limited due to the country’s small size and mountainous terrain. However, it is still an important sector, producing mainly fruits, vegetables, and olives. The country is also known for its wine industry, which dates back to ancient times.

Industry in Lebanon is mainly focused on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with textiles, food processing, and construction materials being the main sectors. The country also has a growing technology sector, with many startups and entrepreneurs working on innovative solutions in various fields.

Overall, Lebanon’s economy is facing significant challenges, but the country still has many strengths, including its highly skilled workforce, strong entrepreneurial spirit, and strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

GEOGRAPHY

Lebanon is a country located in Western Asia. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. The country has a total area of 10,452 square kilometers (4,036 square miles), making it the second-smallest country in continental Asia.

Lebanon’s geography is characterized by a narrow coastal plain, a mountain range that runs parallel to the coast, and the fertile Bekaa Valley that lies between the mountain range and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains to the east. The highest point in Lebanon is Qurnat as Sawda’ at 3,088 meters (10,131 feet) above sea level.

The country has a varied climate due to its varied topography, with a Mediterranean climate along the coast and a continental climate in the mountainous regions. The coastal areas have hot and humid summers, mild winters, and rainfall mainly occurring between November and April. The mountainous areas have cooler temperatures and snowfall in winter.

Lebanon has several important rivers, including the Litani, the Orontes, and the Nahr Ibrahim. It also has several lakes, the largest of which is Lake Qaraoun in the Bekaa Valley.

Lebanon’s location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Basin and the Arabian hinterland has contributed to its rich history and cultural diversity.

TRANSPORT

Lebanon has a fairly developed transportation system, although it faces challenges such as traffic congestion and inadequate infrastructure in some areas. The country has a network of roads, highways, and public transportation options.

Roads and Highways: Lebanon has a total of 7,200 km (4,474 mi) of roads, with around 80% paved. The main highway that connects the country is the Beirut-Damascus Highway, which runs from Beirut to the Syrian border. Other major highways include the Beirut-Saida Highway, the Beirut-Tripoli Highway, and the Beirut-Jounieh Highway. However, due to the mountainous terrain, some areas are difficult to access by road.

Public Transportation: Beirut, the capital city, has a public transportation system consisting of buses and taxis. The buses are operated by the state-owned company OCFTC, but they are known to be overcrowded and unreliable. Taxis are also a popular mode of transportation, but they are not metered, so passengers should agree on the fare before getting in.

Airports: Lebanon has one international airport, the Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, located about 9 km (5.6 mi) south of Beirut. It is the country’s main airport and serves as a hub for several airlines, including Middle East Airlines, Lebanon’s national carrier.

Seaports: Lebanon has several seaports, including the Port of Beirut, which is the country’s main commercial port. Other ports include the Port of Tripoli, the Port of Sidon, and the Port of Tyre. These ports are important for the country’s import and export activities.

Overall, while Lebanon’s transportation system has its challenges, it is still possible to travel around the country by road, air, or sea.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

Lebanon has a diversified economy with several industry sectors. Some of the major industry sectors in Lebanon include:

• Banking and Finance: Lebanon is known for its banking sector, which is one of the largest and most developed in the region. The country is home to several international and regional banks.
• Tourism: Lebanon has a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful Mediterranean coastline, which make it a popular tourist destination. The country attracts visitors from all over the world, contributing significantly to its economy.
• Real Estate: The real estate sector in Lebanon has been booming in recent years, with several high-rise buildings and luxury apartments being built in the major cities.
• Agriculture: Despite the small size of the country, Lebanon has a diverse agricultural sector, with crops such as olives, grapes, and citrus fruits being grown in the fertile valleys and mountains.
• Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector in Lebanon is dominated by small and medium-sized enterprises, which produce textiles, food products, and consumer goods.
• Energy: Lebanon has limited natural resources and relies heavily on imports to meet its energy needs. However, the country has recently started exploring the potential of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power.
• Information Technology: The IT sector in Lebanon has been growing rapidly in recent years, with several startups and established companies operating in the country. The government has also been supporting the development of the sector through various initiatives and policies.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Lebanon has a diverse population of around 6 million people. The majority of the population are ethnic Lebanese, with smaller communities of Armenians, Kurds, Palestinians, and Syrians. The official language is Arabic, but French is also widely spoken and English is increasingly being taught in schools.

Lebanon is a predominantly urban country, with around 87% of the population living in cities and towns. The largest city is the capital, Beirut, which is also the country’s economic and cultural center. Other major cities include Tripoli, Sidon, and Tyre.

Lebanon has a unique confessionalist system of government, in which political power is divided among religious groups. The system is based on a census taken in 1932, which has not been updated since. The President of Lebanon must be a Maronite Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of the Parliament a Shia Muslim. Other government positions are similarly divided among religious groups.

Lebanon has a relatively high literacy rate of around 93%, with education being highly valued in the country. There are several universities in Lebanon, including the American University of Beirut, the Lebanese American University, and the Université Saint-Joseph.

EDUCATION

Education is highly valued in Lebanon, and the country has a well-developed educational system. Education is compulsory from the ages of 6 to 14, and the literacy rate is around 93%. The education system is divided into three levels: primary, intermediate, and secondary. The primary and intermediate levels are free and available to all children, while the secondary level is divided into two types of schools: academic and vocational.

Lebanon has a large number of universities, including both public and private institutions. The American University of Beirut is the oldest and most prestigious university in the country and is recognized internationally. Other notable universities include the Lebanese University, Saint Joseph University, and the Université Saint-Esprit de Kaslik.

The language of instruction in Lebanese schools and universities is primarily Arabic, with French and English also widely used. In recent years, there has been a push to increase English proficiency among students to improve their job prospects in the international job market.

Lebanon has a high number of skilled professionals, particularly in the fields of medicine, engineering, and finance. However, brain drain has been a persistent issue in Lebanon, with many highly educated individuals leaving the country due to political instability and economic difficulties.

HEALTHCARE

Lebanon has a relatively well-developed healthcare system, with a mix of public and private providers. The Ministry of Public Health is responsible for overseeing healthcare policy and regulation in the country.

There are a number of hospitals and medical centers throughout the country, both public and private, with the highest concentration located in Beirut. Some of the major public hospitals include the Rafik Hariri University Hospital and the American University of Beirut Medical Center. The private sector is also an important player in the healthcare industry, with many hospitals and clinics offering specialized services.

Despite the relatively advanced healthcare system, there are some challenges facing the sector in Lebanon. One of the major issues is the high cost of healthcare, particularly for those who are uninsured or underinsured. This can make it difficult for some people to access the care they need, especially for those with chronic or complex conditions.

Another issue is the brain drain of healthcare professionals, as many qualified doctors and nurses leave the country to seek better opportunities elsewhere. This can create a shortage of skilled healthcare workers, particularly in more rural areas.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also put a significant strain on the healthcare system, with hospitals and medical centers overwhelmed by the surge in cases. The government has implemented a number of measures to address the crisis, including increasing the number of hospital beds and ventilators, as well as recruiting additional healthcare workers.

CULTURE

Lebanese culture is a rich blend of various civilizations and religions that have influenced the country throughout its history. The country’s location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Basin and the Arabian hinterland has contributed to its unique cultural identity.

One of the most distinctive features of Lebanese culture is its cuisine, which is considered one of the finest in the Middle East. Lebanese cuisine includes a wide range of dishes, such as mezze (a selection of small dishes), kebabs, shawarma, tabbouleh (a salad made of parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat), and kibbeh (a dish made of ground meat, onions, and bulgur wheat). Lebanese food is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and use of spices such as sumac, cinnamon, and cumin.

Lebanon is also famous for its music, which has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Traditional Lebanese music is characterized by its use of the oud (a stringed instrument similar to a lute) and the qanun (a plucked string instrument). Modern Lebanese music includes a mix of Western and Arabic influences and is popular throughout the Arab world.

Lebanon has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing the works of local and international artists. The country is also home to many historical landmarks and ruins, including the ancient city of Byblos, the Roman ruins at Baalbek, and the Crusader castle at Tripoli.

Religion plays a significant role in Lebanese culture, with Christianity and Islam being the largest religions in the country. Lebanon is home to numerous religious sites, including the Jeita Grotto, a series of limestone caves in the Nahr al-Kalb valley that are sacred to both Christians and Muslims.

Lebanon is also known for its fashion industry, with many designers achieving international fame. Beirut, the country’s capital, has been called the “Paris of the Middle East” due to its reputation as a center for fashion and style.

In addition to its domestic cultural scene, Lebanon has a significant diaspora community spread throughout the world. Lebanese expatriates have made significant contributions to their host countries in fields such as business, politics, and culture.

NATURAL RESOURCES

Lebanon is known for its limited natural resources. Some of its most significant resources include limestone, iron ore, salt, and water. The country also has limited reserves of oil and gas, but efforts are underway to explore and develop these resources.

One of the most important natural resources in Lebanon is water. The country is home to several rivers, including the Litani River, which is the longest in the country. There are also several lakes, the largest of which is Lake Qaraoun, which is a major source of drinking water for the country. However, the country has faced water shortages in recent years due to a combination of factors, including drought and mismanagement of water resources.

Lebanon also has significant agricultural land, with fertile soils in many parts of the country. However, the agriculture sector has been impacted by a lack of investment and infrastructure, as well as by the effects of climate change. The most important crops grown in Lebanon include olives, grapes, citrus fruits, and vegetables.

Tourism is another important natural resource in Lebanon, with the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and scenic landscapes attracting visitors from around the world. The tourism industry has been impacted by political instability and security concerns in recent years, but efforts are underway to promote tourism and attract more visitors to the country.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Lebanon faces a number of environmental challenges, including air pollution, water pollution, soil degradation, deforestation, and waste management.

Air pollution is a major concern in urban areas due to high traffic congestion and the widespread use of diesel generators for electricity. This has led to respiratory problems and other health issues for many residents.

Water pollution is also a significant problem, particularly in coastal areas where untreated sewage and industrial waste are discharged directly into the sea. This has negative impacts on both human health and marine ecosystems.

Soil degradation is another issue, with overgrazing, deforestation, and intensive agriculture leading to erosion and nutrient depletion. This can reduce soil fertility and productivity, making it more difficult for farmers to grow crops.

Deforestation is a particular concern, as Lebanon has lost much of its forest cover due to logging, land use changes, and fires. This has resulted in soil erosion, habitat destruction, and increased vulnerability to landslides and floods.

Waste management is also a significant challenge, with many areas lacking proper waste collection and disposal facilities. This has led to the accumulation of garbage in public spaces and an increased risk of disease.

In recent years, there has been growing awareness of these environmental issues and efforts to address them, including the development of environmental regulations and the promotion of sustainable practices. However, much more needs to be done to ensure a healthier and more sustainable environment for the people of Lebanon.

HUMAN RIGHTS

Lebanon has a mixed record when it comes to human rights. The country has ratified many international treaties and agreements related to human rights, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. However, there are still some areas where human rights abuses occur.

One of the main human rights issues in Lebanon is discrimination against women. Although women have the right to vote and run for office, they still face significant barriers when it comes to accessing education and employment opportunities. Domestic violence is also a significant problem in Lebanon, with many women experiencing abuse at the hands of their husbands or partners.

Another issue in Lebanon is discrimination against refugees and migrant workers. Many refugees and migrant workers are subject to exploitative working conditions and have limited access to healthcare and other essential services. There have also been reports of Lebanese security forces mistreating refugees and asylum-seekers.

Freedom of expression and the press are generally respected in Lebanon, but there have been instances of journalists and activists facing harassment and arrest for expressing their views. The country also has a poor record when it comes to freedom of religion, with certain religious groups facing discrimination and persecution.

Overall, while Lebanon has made progress in promoting human rights, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that all citizens and residents are able to enjoy their basic rights and freedoms.

FOODS

Lebanese cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Some popular Lebanese dishes include:

• Tabbouleh – a salad made with chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
• Hummus – a dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
• Falafel – fried balls made from ground chickpeas, parsley, and spices, typically served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce.
• Kibbeh – a dish made from minced meat (usually lamb or beef), bulgur wheat, onions, and spices, often shaped into balls or patties and fried.
• Shawarma – a popular street food made from thin slices of marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) that are cooked on a rotating spit and served in a pita or wrap with vegetables and sauces.
• Fattoush – a salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, onions, and toasted pita bread, dressed with sumac and lemon juice.
• Manakish – a type of Lebanese flatbread that is typically topped with za’atar (a blend of herbs and spices), cheese, or ground meat.
• Baklava – a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts), and honey or syrup.

Lebanon is also known for its wine, particularly red wine made from the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah grape varieties.

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Lebanon has many popular travel destinations, including:

• Beirut: The capital city of Lebanon is a cultural and historical hub, with numerous museums, galleries, and landmarks.
• Byblos: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to numerous ancient ruins, including the Temple of Baalat Gebal and the Crusader Castle.
• Jeita Grotto: Located just outside of Beirut, the Jeita Grotto is a series of limestone caves and underground lakes that are open to visitors.
• Tripoli: Located in northern Lebanon, Tripoli is a vibrant city with a rich history, including numerous mosques, souks, and other landmarks.
• Tyre: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tyre is an ancient Phoenician city with numerous ruins, including the Al Bass archaeological site and the ancient harbor.
• Baatara Gorge Waterfall: Located in the Tannourine Nature Reserve, the Baatara Gorge Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that is well worth a visit.
• Cedars of God: Located in the mountains of northern Lebanon, the Cedars of God is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the oldest cedar trees in the world.
• Beiteddine Palace: A masterpiece of Lebanese architecture, the Beiteddine Palace was built in the 19th century and is one of the most impressive landmarks in the country.
• Harissa: Located just outside of Beirut, Harissa is a hilltop village with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and a towering statue of the Virgin Mary.
• Qadisha Valley: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qadisha Valley is a stunning natural wonder that is home to numerous caves, monasteries, and other landmarks.

CELEBRITIES

Lebanon has produced many famous individuals in various fields, including:

• Kahlil Gibran – a writer, poet, and philosopher, famous for his book “The Prophet.”
• Fairuz – a legendary singer and actress who is considered the “voice of Lebanon.”
• Carlos Slim Helu – a Mexican-Lebanese businessman who is one of the richest people in the world.
• Amal Clooney – a human rights lawyer and activist who was born in Beirut.
• Elie Saab – a fashion designer who has dressed many celebrities on the red carpet, including Halle Berry, Beyoncé, and Angelina Jolie.
• Nadine Labaki – a film director, actress, and screenwriter who has won numerous awards for her work, including at the Cannes Film Festival.
• Zaha Hadid – a world-renowned architect who was born in Baghdad but grew up in Beirut.
• Najwa Karam – a famous Lebanese singer who has released many albums and won numerous awards.
• Assi El Hallani – a singer and actor who is popular throughout the Arab world.
• Haifa Wehbe – a Lebanese singer and actress who has gained fame in the Middle East and beyond.

NEWSPAPERS

Lebanon has a diverse range of newspapers in both Arabic and English languages. Some of the major newspapers in Arabic include An-Nahar, Al-Akhbar, Al-Mustaqbal, and Al-Joumhouria, while the leading English-language newspapers include The Daily Star and The Daily Star Sunday. Other notable newspapers in English include Lebanon News, Beirut Observer, and Executive Magazine. Additionally, there are several online news sources available such as Lebanon24, MTV Lebanon, and Al Modon.

TV CHANNELS

Lebanon has several TV channels broadcasting in different languages including Arabic, French, and English. Some of the popular TV channels in Lebanon are:

• LBCI: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 1985 and is one of the most watched TV channels in Lebanon.
• Future TV: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 1993 and is known for its news and entertainment programs.
• MTV Lebanon: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 1991 and is known for its news and political talk shows.
• Al Jadeed: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 2001 and is known for its news and political analysis programs.
• Tele Lumiere: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in French and Arabic. It was launched in 1991 and is known for its religious programs.
• NBN: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 1996 and is known for its news and entertainment programs.
• OTV: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 2007 and is known for its news and political talk shows.
• Future News: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 2007 and is known for its news and political analysis programs.
• Al Manar: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic. It was launched in 1991 and is owned by Hezbollah. It is known for its news and political talk shows.
• LBC Europe: It is a Lebanese TV channel broadcasting in Arabic and French. It is known for its news and entertainment programs and is popular among Lebanese diaspora in Europe.

RADIO

Lebanon has a diverse range of radio stations, broadcasting in Arabic, French, and English languages. Some of the popular radio stations in Lebanon include:

• Radio Liban: It is the national radio station of Lebanon, broadcasting in Arabic language.
• Sawt El Ghad: It is a commercial radio station that broadcasts in Arabic language, playing a mix of music and talk shows.
• NRJ Lebanon: It is a popular radio station that broadcasts in both Arabic and English languages, playing a mix of Western and Arabic music.
• Radio Orient: It is a French-language radio station that broadcasts a mix of music, news, and cultural programs.
• Mix FM Lebanon: It is a commercial radio station that broadcasts in English language, playing a mix of international and local music.
• Voice of Lebanon: It is a commercial radio station that broadcasts in Arabic language, featuring news, talk shows, and music.
• Radio One Lebanon: It is a commercial radio station that broadcasts in English language, playing a mix of international and local music, as well as talk shows.
• Light FM Lebanon: It is a Christian radio station that broadcasts in English language, playing a mix of Christian music and inspirational talks.

These are just a few examples of the many radio stations available in Lebanon, catering to a diverse range of audiences with different interests and preferences.

FACTS

Here are some facts about Lebanon.

• Lebanon is a country located in the Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south.
• The capital of Lebanon is Beirut, which is also the largest city in the country.
• Lebanon has a population of around 6 million people.
• The official language of Lebanon is Arabic, but French and English are also widely spoken.
• Lebanon is known for its diverse religious and ethnic groups, with a population that includes Sunni and Shia Muslims, Maronite, Greek Orthodox, and Armenian Catholics, and Druze.
• Lebanon has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating back over 7,000 years.
• Lebanon was ruled by the Ottoman Empire from the 16th century until World War I, when it was placed under French mandate.
• Lebanon gained independence from France in 1943.
• Lebanon is known for its cuisine, which includes dishes such as hummus, tabbouleh, and shawarma.
• The Lebanese flag features a green cedar tree, which is a symbol of strength and resilience.
• The cedar tree is also the national emblem of Lebanon, and can be found on the country’s coat of arms.
• The Lebanese pound is the official currency of Lebanon.
• Lebanon has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
• Lebanon is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife.
• The Jeita Grotto, located in Lebanon, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved cave systems in the world.
• Lebanon is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the ancient city of Byblos, the ruins of the Temple of Jupiter in Baalbek, and the Anjar ruins.
• Lebanon is the only country in the Middle East without a desert.
• The Lebanese Armed Forces is the military of Lebanon.
• The Lebanese economy is based largely on the service sector, including banking, tourism, and real estate.
• Lebanon is home to several prestigious universities, including the American University of Beirut and the Lebanese American University.
• Lebanese singer Fairuz is considered one of the greatest Arab singers of all time.
• Lebanese fashion designer Elie Saab is known for his glamorous and luxurious designs.
• Lebanon is the world’s largest producer of hashish, a type of cannabis.
• The Lebanese Civil War, which lasted from 1975 to 1990, was a devastating conflict that left the country in ruins.
• Beirut is known as the “Paris of the Middle East” for its sophisticated culture and European-style architecture.
• Lebanese cuisine is heavily influenced by the cuisine of the Ottoman Empire, as well as by French and Italian cooking.
• Lebanon has a high literacy rate, with almost 90% of the population able to read and write.
• The Lebanese wine industry is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to ancient times.
• Lebanon is known for its traditional dance, the dabke, which is performed at weddings and other celebrations.
• Lebanon is home to several famous actors and actresses, including Salma Hayek and Keanu Reeves.
• The Lebanese Red Cross is one of the most active and respected humanitarian organizations in the world.
• Lebanon has a rich tradition of poetry and literature, with famous poets such as Khalil Gibran and Amin Maalouf.
• The Lebanese diaspora is one of the largest in the world, with an estimated 14 million people of Lebanese descent living outside the country.