Capital: Beirut

Population (Estimated July 2012): 4,140,289

Area: 10,452 km² or 4,036 mi²

Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP)

Official Language: Arabic

Political Information: Parliamentary Republic

Official Religion: No Official Religion (approximately 59.7 % of the population are Muslim, 39% are Christian and 1.3% have other religious beliefs)

Highest Mountain: Machraa Tourmous Mountain at 2932m or 9619ft

GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a countries economic power)

(Estimated 2011): $41.5 billion (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): (US$) or (GBP)

 

GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and use of resources but not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States) 

 (Estimated 2011): $61.61 billion (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): $15,600 (US$) or (GBP)

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +2:00

Wildlife:

 

 

Counties/Provinces/States: 6 governorates (mohafazat, singular – mohafazah); Beqaa, Beyrouth (Beirut), Liban-Nord, Liban-Sud, Mont-Liban, Nabatiye

 

Leaders: President Michel Suleiman with Prime Minister Najib Mikati.

 

Additional: Gained independence from under French administration on the 22^nd of December 1943.

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Lebanon

Lebanon, officially known as the Lebanese Republic, is a small yet diverse country situated in the Middle East. It shares borders with Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. The capital and largest city is Beirut.

Lebanon boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years and is often referred to as the “Switzerland of the Middle East” due to its striking natural beauty and diverse cultural heritage. The country’s population is approximately 6 million, comprising various ethnic and religious groups, including Lebanese Arabs, Armenians, Kurds, and Assyrians, amongst others. Arabic is the official language, with French and English also widely spoken and understood.

Lebanon’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences is evident in its culture, cuisine, and architecture. The country has a rich tradition of music, dance, and literature, and is renowned for its vibrant arts scene. Lebanon is also famous for its ancient ruins, including the Roman temples of Baalbek and the Phoenician port city of Byblos, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The country’s religious landscape is diverse, with Muslim and Christian communities coexisting peacefully. Lebanon is known for its warm hospitality and friendly people, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes, Lebanon is a truly unique and fascinating country to explore.

Summary

• Lebanon is a small country located in the Middle East, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes.
• The history of Lebanon is marked by a mix of influences from various civilizations, including Phoenician, Roman, and Ottoman, contributing to its unique cultural heritage.
• Lebanon’s geography is characterised by a narrow coastal plain, the fertile Bekaa Valley, and the mountainous terrain of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges.
• Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and a wide variety of dishes such as mezze, kebabs, and baklava.
• Lebanon is home to many historical landmarks and tourist attractions, including the ancient city of Byblos, the Roman ruins at Baalbek, and the vibrant capital city of Beirut.

 

History and Culture of Lebanon

 

A Turbulent 20th Century

In the 20th century, Lebanon gained independence from France in 1943 and became a republic. However, the country has been marred by periods of conflict and civil war, particularly during the Lebanese Civil War from 1975 to 1990. Despite these challenges, Lebanon has managed to rebuild and thrive, becoming a vibrant and diverse society with a rich cultural heritage.

A Cultural Melting Pot

Lebanon’s culture is a blend of Eastern and Western influences, reflecting its long history of trade and conquest. The country is known for its traditional music and dance, including the famous dabke dance, which is performed at weddings and other celebrations. Lebanese cuisine is also renowned for its delicious flavours and unique dishes, such as hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and kebabs.

A Rich Cultural Heritage

The country has a rich tradition of literature and poetry, with many famous writers and poets hailing from Lebanon. In addition to its cultural heritage, Lebanon is also known for its stunning architecture, including ancient ruins, medieval castles, and Ottoman-era buildings. The country’s diverse religious landscape has also contributed to its rich cultural tapestry, with mosques, churches, and synagogues coexisting side by side. Overall, Lebanon’s history and culture are a testament to its resilience and ability to thrive in the face of adversity.

Geography and Climate of Lebanon

Lebanon is a small yet geographically diverse country that is home to stunning natural landscapes and a mild Mediterranean climate. The country is divided into four main geographical regions: the coastal plain along the Mediterranean Sea, the Mount Lebanon range in the west, the Beqaa Valley in the east, and the Anti-Lebanon mountains along the border with Syria. The highest peak in Lebanon is Qurnat as Sawda’, which reaches an elevation of 3,088 meters (10,131 feet) above sea level.

The country is known for its beautiful coastline, with sandy beaches and rocky cliffs that attract tourists from around the world. Lebanon enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild wet winters. The coastal areas experience average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) in summer to 13°C (55°F) in winter.

Inland areas such as the Beqaa Valley have hotter summers and colder winters, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) in summer and dropping to 5°C (41°F) in winter. The country receives most of its rainfall between November and March, with an average annual precipitation of around 800 millimetres (31 inches). Lebanon’s diverse geography and climate make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and beach holidays.

With its stunning natural beauty and pleasant climate, Lebanon offers a unique blend of landscapes that cater to a wide range of interests.

Lebanese Cuisine and Food Culture

Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavours, fresh ingredients, and unique dishes that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage. The cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean, Arabic, and European influences, with an emphasis on fresh vegetables, grains, legumes, and lean meats. Some of the most popular Lebanese dishes include hummus (a creamy dip made from chickpeas), falafel (deep-fried chickpea patties), tabbouleh (a refreshing salad made from parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur), kebabs (grilled skewers of marinated meat), and kibbeh (a dish made from minced meat and bulgur).

Lebanese cuisine also features a wide variety of meze (appetisers), such as fattoush (a mixed salad with toasted pita bread), moutabal (smoky eggplant dip), and sambousek (crispy pastry filled with meat or cheese). Lebanese food culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality and sharing meals with family and friends. It is common for Lebanese households to prepare large feasts for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and religious holidays.

Meals are often served family-style, with an array of dishes laid out on the table for everyone to enjoy. Lebanese cuisine also has a strong tradition of using seasonal ingredients and preserving food through techniques such as pickling, drying, and fermenting. In recent years, Lebanese cuisine has gained popularity around the world, with Lebanese restaurants opening in major cities and people embracing the healthy and flavourful nature of the food.

Overall, Lebanese cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage and its love for good food and good company.

Tourism and Landmarks in Lebanon

Lebanon is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. The country offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore, from historic sites to beautiful beaches and mountain resorts. One of the most famous landmarks in Lebanon is the ancient city of Baalbek, which is home to some of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world.

Another must-see destination is the Phoenician port city of Byblos, which has a history dating back over 7,000 years and is recognised as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Lebanon’s capital city Beirut is a vibrant metropolis with a mix of modern architecture and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the city’s bustling markets, trendy cafes, art galleries, and museums that showcase Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage.

The city also offers a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and restaurants serving delicious Lebanese cuisine. For nature lovers, Lebanon’s stunning landscapes offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking in the mountains, skiing in winter resorts like Faraya Mzaar or swimming in crystal-clear waters along the coast. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, Lebanon offers something for every type of traveller.

Economy and Politics of Lebanon

 

Economic Challenges

The country’s political system is based on a confessionalist model, which distributes power among different religious groups according to their demographic size. This system has led to political tensions between different factions within the government, which has further strained the economy. In recent years, political instability has been exacerbated by external factors such as the Syrian civil war, which has led to a large influx of refugees into Lebanon.

Corruption and Its Impact

In addition to these challenges, Lebanon has faced difficulties related to corruption within its government institutions, which have hindered economic growth and development. This corruption has had a significant impact on the country’s ability to move forward and has led to widespread disillusionment among the population.

A Highly Educated Workforce

Despite these challenges, Lebanon has a highly educated workforce with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, which has helped drive innovation in sectors such as technology and finance. This has provided a glimmer of hope for the country’s economic future and has the potential to help Lebanon overcome its current difficulties.

Current Challenges and Future Outlook for Lebanon

Lebanon faces several pressing challenges that have impacted its economy and society in recent years. One of the most significant challenges is the ongoing political instability which has led to frequent changes in government leadership as well as protests against corruption within the government institutions. The country also faces economic challenges such as high levels of public debt which have led to austerity measures being implemented by the government.

Another major challenge facing Lebanon is the impact of the Syrian civil war which has led to an influx of refugees into the country placing strain on resources such as healthcare services and education facilities. In addition to this, Lebanon has faced environmental challenges such as pollution from waste management issues which have impacted public health. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for growth in sectors such as technology where Lebanese entrepreneurs have shown innovation in developing startups that have gained international recognition.

There are also opportunities for growth in sectors such as renewable energy where Lebanon has potential for development due to its abundant sunshine. In conclusion, while Lebanon faces significant challenges related to political instability, economic pressures and social issues such as refugee influxes; there are opportunities for growth in sectors such as technology and renewable energy which could help drive economic development in the future. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes; Lebanon has potential to overcome these challenges through innovation and resilience.

FAQs

 

What is the capital of Lebanon?

The capital of Lebanon is Beirut.

What is the official language of Lebanon?

The official language of Lebanon is Arabic.

What is the currency used in Lebanon?

The currency used in Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP).

What is the population of Lebanon?

As of 2021, the population of Lebanon is estimated to be around 6.8 million.

What is the predominant religion in Lebanon?

The predominant religion in Lebanon is Islam, with a significant Christian minority.

What are some popular tourist attractions in Lebanon?

Some popular tourist attractions in Lebanon include the historic city of Byblos, the ancient ruins of Baalbek, the Jeita Grotto, and the vibrant nightlife of Beirut.

What is the climate like in Lebanon?

Lebanon has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

What are some traditional Lebanese dishes?

Traditional Lebanese dishes include hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, kebabs, and baklava.

What are some major industries in Lebanon?

Major industries in Lebanon include banking and finance, tourism, agriculture, and food processing.