North Lebanon: Tripoli

Описание: Everything looks different when it rains. Today I left Byblos behind and headed out to Batroun. This Christian Seaside town was completely empty and they were building everywhere! I did find the Phoenician Wall and a Roman Theatre in someones garden.

After Batroun, I went into the hills to visit 2 remote Ancient Roman Temples. First the tiny Bziza Roman Temple and then I went to the sight of the Qasr Naous Roman Temples which was a lovely place. But by now the wind picked up and rain came in quickly.

Driving into Tripoli was exactly the nightmare I envisioned but I survived! I headed into town by taxi to explore the castle of Raymond de Saint-Gilles and the souks and khans in the old part. The citadel was nice and the views were confirming my thoughts about Tripoli: I didn’t really like it. Such a concrete jungle without green space and just blocks and blocks of houses, hidding their treasures.

I was in doubt about visiting Tripoli. Was it even safe? Is it dangerous? I felt safe and no, it is not dangerous but excitingly fun and a must see? In my opinion: no. I’m sure if you explore with a local and get behind all the little secrets of the souk, it is much nicer but for me it was absolutely not love at first sight. But no worries, I’m still happy as I also take these experiences and process them for future travel planning.