The tour commences with a visit to the Museum and Heritage House of Menjez, where a local guide leads us through an impressive collection of artifacts collected from various archaeological sites in the region, including the dolmens and temples.
Next on the itinerary is a stop at the Saydet el Qalaa, the only black basalt stone church, where the guide shares the history of the church while we take in the breathtaking panoramic view of the Nahr el Kabir river, which serves as the Syrian-Lebanese border, and beyond to Syria.
Finally, we proceed to the dolmen sites, of which there are several. Our guide enlightens us about the origins and history of these mysterious and intriguing structures.
After that, we leave to discover the temple of Nemesis, or temple of Jaalouk. We listen to the myths and stories around this great temple dedicated to the famous Greek goddess of vengeance and justice. We observe the architecture of this archaeological treasure, taking advantage of our guide’s knowhow.
Upon reaching Kobeyat, we visit the Butterfly Museum, which is a haven for local wildlife enthusiasts. The museum houses not only butterflies but also birds and wild animals from Lebanon, making for an exciting experience. This stop serves as the perfect opportunity to take a break before embarking on the final leg of the walk - the visit to the Mar Challita church.
Built over a Greek temple dedicated to Baal, the Mar Challita Church holds a fascinating history. It was renovated by a renowned woman in the region who dedicated a significant portion of her life to its restoration and upkeep, as a token of gratitude for her son's healing. Visitors may even be fortunate enough to meet this lady and hear her story firsthand.
Following this enriching walk filled with discoveries and emotions, it's highly recommended to gather around a traditional Lebanese meal at the Wadi Diwan restaurant and share stories.
