JUPITER, VENUS AND BACCHUS

BAALBECK

Built by the Romans, the magnificent temples of Baalbeck date back to the first century A.D. The cluster includes three temples: Jupiter, Bacchus and Venus. Baalbeck’s temple of Jupiter was the biggest pagan temple dedicated to the god of the Roman Empire. The 54 massive granite columns were 30m high: the largest in the classical world.

Honoring the god of wine, the temple of Bacchus is perhaps the most famous of the three and one of the best preserved Roman temples in the world.

The temple of Venus was constructed on a horseshoe-shaped base. Representations of doves and shells are still visible on the structure, which has been taken as evidence that it was dedicated to the Roman goddess.

After you’ve visited the site, enjoy sfiha Baalbakieh at Lakkis Rest House (71 666029), Lebanese and Turkish delicacies at Jawhary (08 370240) or traditional Lebanese fare at Casino Ras El Ain (03 364802).