Visit: January 2019. I arrived in Anjar from Baalbek and had to rely entirely on my preloaded (I was not able to get mobile internet in Lebanon) Google Maps directions. I couldn’t find any signs pointing towards this WHS. Even within Anjar itself there is no clear signage. It is quite a shame how low key this place is, as in international comparison it is a very nice and deserving WHS.

Once arrived, there is free parking right in front of the entrance. Opening times are as generous as in most places around Lebanon (one more reason to like this country), so I didn’t have to worry about that.

The first thing I noted was that despite the moderate elevation drop of only 200m, Anjar was completely snow free, while Baalbek had been covered in a thick layer of snow. Unfortunately, the snow was replaced by mud, which made walking on parts of the site kind of a Super Mario hopping from stone to stone adventure. Nevertheless I really enjoyed this Umayyad town with the clear roman layout. The lack of safety standards means it’s no problem to walk on the city walls and explore parts of the town that are probably left out by the tour groups or maintenance. There were only four other tourists on site and one guy in the ticket booth. Plenty of unspoiled photo opportunities. Take your time to explore and you will find different districts for governing, housing, shopping and religion.

Anjar is close to Baalbek. All other Lebanese WHS are on the other side of the mountain range, so make sure to cover Anjar and Baalbek at once, when day tripping from Beirut.