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Anjar Umayyad City
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Anjar (Gerrha) is the only Lebanese site dating exclusively from the 8th-century Umayyad period. Founded in 714 AD by Caliph Al-Walid I, the city followed a strict Roman-Byzantine grid structure, with the classical cardo maximus and decumanus axes. Built at the intersection of trade routes, the settlement was never fully completed, as it was abandoned and partially destroyed after the Abbasid dynasty took power in 750. The ruins include the caliph's palace, the small palace, the mosque, baths, and over 600 shops. An architectural peculiarity is the alternation of stone and brick courses, which helped withstand earthquakes. The ancient sewer system and wastewater drainage demonstrate advanced engineering knowledge. Anjar is an exceptional example of early Islamic urban planning and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1984.
- Location: Lebanon
- Top sights: abdelrahim · anjar preserve · Khirbat `Ayn ad Din
- Nearby: Zahlé (11 km)
- Population: ~2.400 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 5 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 23 | 19 | 11 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 57 | 29 | 18 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 13 | 35 | 57 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Visitors are completely free to walk through the expansive archaeological site, tracing the ancient Roman-style grid streets of this unique Umayyad complex. The site is outdoors and features uneven stone pathways, allowing you to closely inspect the monumental gateways, palace foundations, and market arcades.
Typical hours
The ruins are typically open to visitors during standard daylight hours throughout the week, often from morning until just before sunset. Access might be slightly curtailed during extreme weather conditions or local public holidays, so daytime visits are the safest bet.
Photography
The elegant arches of the main thoroughfares provide spectacular framing for architectural photography against the backdrop of the Bekaa Valley mountains. Early morning or late afternoon light beautifully emphasizes the textures of the ancient masonry and creates long, atmospheric shadows.
Time needed
To walk the main Cardo and Decumanus avenues and appreciate the scale of the baths and palaces, you should plan on spending at least one to two hours here. History enthusiasts might take significantly longer examining the detailed carvings and the overall urban planning layout.
Combine with
Located in the renowned Bekaa Valley, a trip here is effortlessly paired with a visit to the spectacular Roman temples of Baalbek further north. Additionally, many travelers choose to stop at local wineries in the region to taste renowned Lebanese wines on the way back.
Getting there
The ruins are most easily reached by hiring a taxi or driving a rental car from Beirut along the main highway into the valley. Once you arrive at the town of Anjar, the archaeological site is prominently signposted and features convenient parking near the entrance.
Insider tip
Because the site is very open and exposed to the elements, visiting during the cooler morning hours or late afternoon is highly recommended in summer. It is also worthwhile to hire a local guide at the entrance to fully grasp the unique Umayyad historical context, which differs greatly from Roman sites.
Geography
Facts
- The city was enclosed by a two-meter-thick wall encompassing 114,000 square meters.
- During the excavations, a hammam with an advanced heating system was discovered.
- A significant portion of the columns were brought from older Roman and Byzantine buildings.
- In the mid-20th century, Armenian refugees settled next to the ruins.
- An aqueduct system that could still function runs beneath the ancient streets.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Anjar Umayyad City (9)
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Frequently asked questions
What makes these ruins unique?
It is the only example of an Umayyad inland city in Lebanon with a Roman city layout.
Where exactly is Anjar located?
In the Bekaa Valley, near the Syrian border, about 58 km east of Beirut.
Are there any restaurants nearby?
Yes, Anjar is famous for its trout restaurants, serving fresh fish from local springs.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, there is a small fee for accessing the archaeological site.
Is the site shaded?
No, the ruins are in the open. Sun protection and water are essential in summer.
Anjar Umayyad City: where is it located?
Anjar Umayyad City is located in Lebanon.
Anjar Umayyad City: what is there to see?
Highlights include abdelrahim, anjar preserve, Khirbat `Ayn ad Din.
Anjar Umayyad City: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Anjar Umayyad City: why is it worth visiting?
Anjar (Gerrha) is the only Lebanese site dating exclusively from the 8th-century Umayyad period.
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