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Byblos (Jbeil) is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with history layered like its ancient stones. Beyond its charming castle, the town and surrounding region offer a wealth of sights that will captivate history buffs, culture lovers and casual strollers alike. Here is a guide to the must-see attractions in and around Byblos to help you plan an unforgettable visit from your base at Aleph Boutique Hotel.
1. Byblos Archaeological Site & Temples
Walk through millennia at this UNESCO-listed archaeological site just outside the castle. Highlights include the Temple of Baalat Gebal and Temple of the Obelisks, where you can admire towering pillars and Bronze Age carvings that once honored the city’s patron goddess. Nearby, the King’s Spring and Royal Necropolis reveal ancient tombs and spiral staircases carved deep into the bedrock.
2. Byblos Harbor & Ancient Ruins
Just steps from the castle, the old harbor pulses with life. Colorful fishing boats bob beside medieval stone walls, while waterfront cafés offer the perfect perch to watch the sunset. Wander the adjacent ruins where Phoenician foundations meet later Roman and Crusader fragments – it’s a living timeline framed by the sparkling Mediterranean.
3. Old Souk & Cobblestone Streets
Lose yourself in the winding alleys of Byblos’s souk. Browse artisans’ workshops brimming with hand‑blown glass, jewelry and local crafts, or stop for a strong Lebanese coffee at one of the many cafés tucked between stone walls and flowering bougainvillea. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and soak in the town’s vibrant energy.
4. Byblos Wax Museum (Memory of Time)
A few steps from the souk, this quirky museum brings history to life. Wax figures represent legendary Phoenicians like Cadmus and Adonis as well as modern Lebanese heroes, making it a fun stop for families and curious travelers.
5. Byblos Fossil Museum
Discover a prehistoric marine world at this intimate museum located in the old town. Displays include fish, rays and eels fossilized in limestone slabs from nearby villages, some dating back tens of millions of years. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Lebanon’s ancient seabeds.
6. St. John’s Cathedral
Built in 1115 by the Crusaders and later restored by the Maronites, this Romanesque cathedral blends Western and Eastern architectural styles. Step inside its vaulted nave and tranquil courtyards to feel centuries of devotion echoing off the stone walls.
7. Roman Colonnades & Ancient Walls
Further into the archaeological park, you’ll find the ruins of Roman colonnades and fragments of city walls from Phoenician through medieval times. These weathered stones tell stories of conquests, traders and pilgrims who passed through this crossroads of civilizations.
Day Trips and Nearby Sights:
• Jeita Grotto – Explore Lebanon’s most famous cave system, with boat rides on subterranean lakes and soaring stalactites.
• Harissa – Take the cable car up to Our Lady of Lebanon for sweeping views of Jounieh Bay and a serene spiritual experience.
• Batroun & IXSIR Winery – Head north to wander another charming coastal town and sip award‑winning Lebanese wines.
• If you have time for a longer excursion, consider a trip to Baalbek in the Beqaa Valley to marvel at some of the best preserved Roman temples in the world.
Base Yourself at Aleph Boutique Hotel
With so many sights nearby, it makes sense to stay close to the action. Aleph Boutique Hotel sits just steps from Byblos Castle and the souk, making it easy to explore on foot. Our reception team is always happy to share insider tips, arrange transport or book guided tours to sites like Jeita Grotto and Harissa. After a day of discovery, return to your comfortable room, relax on our terrace with a glass of Lebanese wine and watch the sun set over the ancient harbor.
