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Complex independency
A nation that struggles with influences of its past and current interests from 18 official religious groups and its surrounding countries.
Melting pot
What causes severe discussions in other countries is perfectly normal in this country of contrasts: houses of prayer of different religions side by side.
Lady of Lebanon
One of the most important shrines in the world honouring Mary, once named Queen of Lebanon by the Maronite Patriarch of Antioch. The 15-ton bronze statue overlooks the bay of Jounieh and stretches her hands towards Beirut.
Rebuilt
The entire historic centre of Beirut was rebuilt after the end of the civil war.
Rebuilt
The entire historic centre of Beirut was rebuilt after the end of the civil war.
Uncertain future
Like in the past a single spark could be sufficient to become part of another proxy war.
Positive attitude
Still hopes are high in this vibrant country. It seems that its proud past of inventions and international maritime trade somehow still is part of the people’s spirit.
Orientation
In the 1950s and 1960s commonly called “Switzerland of the Orient”, attitude towards life is unbrokenly very western-oriented. Put in relation to the population, Lebanon has the highest rate of plastic surgeries worldwide.
Tradition
For those who can afford it weddings are grandiose celebrations with often several hundreds of guests at historic places like Mir Amin Palace.
Tyre
Back then an island, it took Alexander the Great seven months to conquer one of the once most important Phoenician cities in 332 B.C. Well preserved marble mosaics are silent witnesses of the past wealth.
Momentous decision
Alexander the Great decided to occupy the Phoenician cities along the coastline as they provided the Persians with their fleet. Most of the cities surrendered. All but one: Tyre.
No mercy
Alexander finally found a way to break the massive walls and he showed only mercy with those who fled to the temples. Everyone else who was able to wear weapons was killed and 2,000 men where crucified at the seaside. A 13,000 women and children became slaves.
Construction site
Especially along the coastline investments are high and new buildings and houses arise like wild. They sell at insane prices and depending on the location above average international price levels.
Cost of living
With rapidly rising price levels it becomes more and more difficult for ordinary people to get along with their low income.
Handicraft
Although times are also changing in Lebanon, handicraft still is an important income factor and passed on to next generations.
Amusement park
Unlike to most of the other countries in the Middle East, there are no bans on alcohol, no dress codes or other strict maxim. Especially in summer Lebanon turns into a major tourist attraction and mosaic of cultures.
Sidon Fish Market
Early morning hustle and bustle. It is said, that this is one of the best markets for fresh fish in Lebanon.
Contribution
In many families even the children have to contribute to make a living.
Children
Generally speaking it is a very child friendly society where it is quite uncommon for a family not to have children.
Life is bone work
Pension system and social security is not existing for lower classes. This situation forces even elderly to continue working after the regular retirement age. As labour generally is cheap, it takes bone work for thousands to make a living.
Clash of classes
Cost of living constantly rises and has already reached European levels. Very rich and very poor live side by side. In a country where space is very limited, they commonly even share same streets.
Clash of classes
Cost of living constantly rises and has already reached European levels. Very rich and very poor live side by side. In a country where space is very limited, they commonly even share same streets.
Rooftop pleasures
Cost of living constantly rises and has already reached European levels. Very rich and very poor live side by side. In a country where space is very limited, they commonly even share same streets.
Make a living
Like in many Arab countries market access for individuals is easy. Therefore self-employment is widespread and competition amongst entrepreneurs is high.
Joie de vivre
As soon as the sun sets, Beirut becomes even more vibrant. It turns into an amusement zone with bursting restaurants and exclusive clubs that regularly attract international entertainers.
Area of conflicts
While the picture international media gives is different to local reality, people have learned to cope with tensions and to permanently live on a powder keg.
City of Sidon
Authentic life in the third-largest city in Lebanon. In Genesis, Sidon is a son of Canaan, a grandson of Noah. Its name coincides with the modern Arabic word for fishery.
Haifa–Beirut–Tripoli Railway
Remains of the HBT Railway that was completed by South African and Australian engineers to connect Haifa and Beirut. Opened in 1942 it never operated for civilian use.
Caged Freedom
Directly suffering from the effects of a constantly turbulent region Lebanon struggles to fight destabilizing forces and to stay a sovereign state.