A small town nestled on a hill in southern Lebanon, Bent Jbeil is known for its historic architecture, bustling market and surrounding orchards and olive groves. In addition to ancient monuments, it has beautiful forests and abundant lakes fed by natural springs.
Things to do in Bent Jbeil
If you like history, visit Bent Jbeil’s oldest remains, the Byzantine columns,19th-century Grand Mosque and the temple dedicated to the goddess Annat in the main square. More recent history is commemorated in Martyrs’ Square, with a monument to the people who died in the Israeli-Lebanese conflict. In the old bazaar, there is a lively market every Thursday where local farmers and traders sell everything from vegetables to handicrafts.
A few kilometres north of Bent Jbeil you can explore Tiri, a network of caves and the remains of ancient stone-cut cisterns which are still in use today. Take a seat in the rock-hewn chair known locally as the “king’s throne”.
Looking for a day trip? Head to the reserve of Wadi al-Hujeir, where pristine forests of oak, olive and eucalyptus reveal foxes, porcupines and wild pigs. Go for a swim in one of the swimming pools that have been created from the area’s natural springs or visit the old mills dotted around the reserve, which has been restored to their former glory.
Getting around Bent Jbeil
Bent Jbeil is 35 kilometres from Tyre, the main city in the region. The easiest way to get to Bint Jbeil is to hire a car for the one-hour drive. The town can easily be covered on foot, and there are regular buses to Wadi al-Hujeir.