Qadisha Valley
About Qadisha Valley:
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The magnificent Qadisha Valley, also known as Wadi Qadisha lies in the Bcharri and Zgharta Districts of the North Governorate of Lebanon. Carved into a deep gorge by the Qadisha River, it is one of Lebanon’s must-see natural wonders.
Perched on its edges eight towns, each with its own long history. Qadisha Valley has sheltered Christian monastic communities for many centuries, and you’ll find caves and sanctuaries that were inhabited from the 3rd century B.C. until the Roman period. Hermitages, rocky monasteries and churches are scattered across the valley, many of which are easily accessible by foot along the breathtaking paths that line the steep embankments. The most important is Deir Qannubin, which at the end of the 15th century became the residence of the Maronite patriarchs. Also, the monastery of Qozhaya where there is a printing press dating from 1871, a reminder that this was the site of Lebanon’s first printing press, imported in the 16th century. |
The Unesco classified the valley as a World Heritage Site out of consideration for both its cultural and natural landmarks. The valley is home to thousands of varieties of plants and animals, some 10 percent of which are unique to Lebanon.
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