4Byblos, Lebanon – Around 5000–7000 BC
Byblos, known today as Jbeil, is another ancient Mediterranean city with an exceptionally long history. Archaeological evidence indicates Neolithic settlement dating back roughly 7,000 years, although its development as a city belongs to a later period.
Byblos became a major Phoenician center and was closely associated with maritime trade. Its connection with papyrus is particularly interesting: the ancient Greek name for the city, Byblos, became associated with the word that eventually gave us “Bible.”
The old harbor, archaeological ruins and historic streets make Byblos one of Lebanon’s most remarkable destinations for history lovers.
