Travel Guide Smar Jbeil

One of the oldest villages in Lebanon, with an eventful history! The Belgian orientalist Henri Lammensa also considered that the remains of the citadel could be attributed to the Phoenicians. Strategically located between Batroun and Tripoli, conquerors of all ages have not failed to make it a strong place, as Pompey the Great did during his campaign of 63 BC. After the persecution of the Maronites by the Byzantine church in the 7th century, the followers of Saint Maroun took refuge there with their spiritual leader. In the 9th century, the Arabs took control of the village, before being driven out by the Crusaders, who built a fortified castle that is still visible today, as well as several churches. The Mamluks drove them out in the 13th century. Finally, the Ottomans were the last invaders to take an interest in Smar Jbeil in 1516. Maronites settled here in the 19th century. In short, a story that reflects Lebanon's image...