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Temple of Bacchus
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The Temple of Bacchus in the ancient city of Baalbek dates from around 150 AD and is one of the best-preserved Roman religious buildings in the world. Although smaller than the neighboring Temple of Jupiter, its dimensions are still impressive: 66 meters long and 35 meters wide, with 19-meter-high Corinthian columns. Tradition associates the temple with Bacchus, the god of wine, due to the rich carvings on the portal and interior depicting grapevines and bacchantes. The interior walls of the cella are articulated by niches and pilasters, and the monumental entrance is decorated with intricate stone carvings, including eagle and lion motifs. The good condition of the walls is partly due to the fact that during the Middle Ages, the building was integrated into the Arab fortress, escaping widespread destruction. The temple represents a masterpiece of Roman stone carving and is a jewel of the Middle East's ancient heritage.
- Location: Lebanon
- Top sights: Baalbek old train station · Lion Temple · Stone of the Pregnant Woman
- Nearby: Rayak (27 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 4 | 7 | 11 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 21 | 16 | 9 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 78 | 57 | 32 | 18 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 15 | 36 | 60 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The monumental ancient temple is the centerpiece of the archaeological park and can be marveled at by visitors from the outside as well as explored within its imposing interior.
Typical hours
The massive ancient complex is usually open to visiting tourists daily from morning until late afternoon, and often remains open slightly longer during the busy summer months.
Photography
The enormous, well-preserved pillars and intricately detailed ceiling reliefs offer exceptional photo subjects, particularly when the sunlight beautifully pierces through the colonnades.
Time needed
For exploring the entire massive temple complex in Baalbek, you should plan to spend at least two to three hours to truly absorb the gigantic dimensions of the site in peace.
Combine with
A visit is inevitably linked with admiring the massive Temple of Jupiter situated right next door, and can be ideally complemented by a rewarding detour into the historical old town.
Getting there
Traveling to Baalbek is best accomplished using a rental car or by joining an organized tour from Beirut, as public transportation options tend to be highly unreliable.
Insider tip
Be absolutely sure to pay close attention to the artistic decorations on the monumental gateway, which rank among the finest surviving examples of Roman stone carving in the entire Middle East.
Geography
Facts
- The peripteral structure was originally surrounded by 42 massive columns.
- A carved stone block hung precariously over the entrance and was stabilized in 1870.
- Portraits of planetary gods can be seen on the remains of the coffered ceiling.
- In the early 20th century, the entire building had to be cleared of thick rubble.
- According to experts, the temple might also have been dedicated to the goddess Atargatis.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Temple of Bacchus (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is it considered one of the best-preserved temples?
Despite earthquakes, the magnificent reliefs and almost all columns of the Roman structure remain intact.
What is the Baalbek International Festival?
An annual summer event featuring concerts set against the dramatic backdrop of the temple ruins.
Are the stairs safe to climb?
The stones are old and often uneven; wear sturdy footwear and be careful.
Is there a museum on site?
Yes, in the tunnels beneath the site, there is a small museum about the city's history.
Is Baalbek safe to visit?
It is generally safe, but check current travel advisories due to its proximity to the border.
Temple of Bacchus: where is it located?
Temple of Bacchus is located in Lebanon.
Temple of Bacchus: what is there to see?
Highlights include Baalbek old train station, Lion Temple, Stone of the Pregnant Woman.
Temple of Bacchus: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Temple of Bacchus: why is it worth visiting?
The Temple of Bacchus in the ancient city of Baalbek dates from around 150 AD and is one of the best-preserved Roman religious buildings in the world.
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