ANCIENT BRONZE HOUSES AND CHALCOLITHIC DWELLINGS

Grouped behind a large enclosure facing the source, houses of the proto-urban era (3100-3200 BC) are the first examples of buildings in hard shape. Rectangular homes, isolated from each other, are usually composed of one piece. The épi stones and the passage of the angle stone ensure the walls are sturdy, while two poles support the front beam on which the frieze or skin forming the roof are based.

By continuing to the south of the mound, you go to the ancient bronze houses (2900-2300 BC). This first great residence testifies to the rise of the city. At that time, Byblos maintained intense trade with Egypt. Due to the size of the building, 120 wooden barrels were confiscated to support walls and roof. Behind the large residence, another group of houses corresponds to the initial phase of urban development.

The sandstone constructions blend around a courtyard and seven poles support the roof.

At the foot of the only contemporary house remaining on the mound, excavations have resulted in the updating of the remains of chalcolithiques homes (3500-3100 BC). At that time, the inhabitants of the region began to settle and built circular houses marked by rows of stones, which were supported by arcuate, recouvertes, or mats, but above all, the burial jars will characterize that time. These, which were cut laterally into two parts, allowed for the introduction of the deceased. The second part was then put in place and the orifice of the rebouché jar. Many objects (pitchers, bowls, jewels…) accompanied death in his "new life". During his excavations, Maurice Dunand uncovered a necropolis containing 1 451 burial pots.

After contourné the house, you arrive at Neolithic facilities (5000-4000 BC). The houses, whose soil was covered with lime, appear - according to the hooks found in the vicinity - to have sheltered fishermen.