Harissa, Lebanon: An Incredible History, Amazing Facts, and Things To Do
Harissa, Lebanon is a beautiful and vibrant city located in the Mediterranean region of the Middle East. It is known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and its unique culture. With its rich history, amazing facts, and things to do, Harissa is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
History of Harissa
Harissa has a long and fascinating history, dating back to ancient times. The city was first founded in the 4th century BC by the Phoenicians, who were a seafaring people from the eastern Mediterranean region. The Phoenicians named the city Harissa, which means “mountain of the gods.” It is believed that the city was a major port for the Phoenicians, and was a major trading center for the region.
In the 7th century, Harissa was conquered by the Arabs, who renamed the city Jounieh. The city was then ruled by the Ottoman Empire until the end of World War I, when it was annexed by France. After the end of the French Mandate, Harissa became part of the newly formed country of Lebanon.
Today, Harissa is a bustling city, with a population of over 100,000 people. It is a popular tourist destination, with its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, its unique culture, and its rich history.
Amazing Facts About Harissa
Harissa is home to one of the oldest churches in the world, the Church of St. George. The church was built in the 4th century AD and is still standing today.
Harissa is also home to the oldest continuously operating casino in the world, Casino du Liban. The casino was opened in 1959 and is still in operation today.
The city is also home to the world’s largest statue of the Virgin Mary, which stands at an impressive 15 meters tall. The statue was built in 1908 and is located on a hill overlooking the city.
Things To Do In Harissa
There are plenty of things to do in Harissa, Lebanon. Here are some of the top attractions:
1. Visit the Church of St. George: This ancient church is a must-see for any visitor to Harissa. The church is open to visitors and offers stunning views of the city.
2. Take a Trip to Casino du Liban: This iconic casino is a must-visit for any traveler to Harissa. The casino offers a variety of games, as well as a restaurant and bar.
3. Explore the Souks: Harissa’s souks are a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. The souks are filled with vendors selling everything from spices to jewelry and clothing.
4. Visit the Virgin Mary Statue: The 15-meter tall statue of the Virgin Mary is a popular tourist attraction in Harissa. The statue overlooks the city and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
5. Enjoy the Beach: Harissa is home to some of the best beaches in the region. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, sunbathing and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.
Harissa, Lebanon is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich history and culture. With its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, its unique culture, and its amazing attractions, Harissa is a must-visit destination for any traveler.