Jbail, Lebanon is a coastal city located in the Byblos District of Mount Lebanon Governorate. It is the largest city in the area and is known for its rich history and culture. Jbail has been inhabited since the Neolithic period and has been an important trading port since the Bronze Age. The city has been ruled by numerous civilizations, including the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Ottomans, and the French.
The Phoenicians first settled in Jbail in the 14th century BC. They established a trading port and a temple dedicated to the god Melqart. The city was known as Gebal, which means “mountain” in Phoenician. The Phoenicians founded a number of other cities in the area, including Byblos and Sidon.
In the 7th century BC, the city was conquered by the Assyrians and renamed Jbail. The city flourished under the Assyrian rule and became an important trading port. The city was later conquered by the Babylonians and then the Persians.
In the 4th century BC, Alexander the Great conquered Jbail and renamed it Berytus. Under the rule of the Seleucid Empire, the city was renamed again to Laodicea in Phoenicia. The city was later conquered by the Romans and renamed Berytus.
Under the rule of the Roman Empire, Jbail was an important trading port and a center of learning. It was home to the first law school in the world and was the birthplace of many famous Roman figures, including Cicero and Julius Caesar.
In the 7th century, the city was conquered by the Arabs and renamed Jbail. The city was later conquered by the Ottomans in the 16th century and renamed Jbeil. The Ottomans fortified the city and made it the center of their administration in the region.
In the 19th century, Jbail was occupied by the French and was made part of the French Mandate of Lebanon. The city was later incorporated into the newly formed state of Lebanon in 1943.
Today, Jbail is a thriving city that is home to a large population of both Christians and Muslims. The city is home to many ancient monuments, including the Crusader Castle, the Roman Temple of Jupiter, and the Ottoman Fort. It is also home to many museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions.
Jbail is an important part of the history and culture of Lebanon and is an important destination for tourists and scholars alike. Its rich history and culture make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the history of the region.