Temple of Jupiter

The Temple of Jupiter in Baalbek, Lebanon, is one of the grandest and most significant Roman temples ever constructed. Situated in the ancient city of Heliopolis (modern-day Baalbek), it was dedicated to the Roman god Jupiter, representing a fusion of Roman and Eastern architectural traditions. Built atop a massive platform supported by enormous stones, including the famous "Baalbek Trilithon," this temple features some of the largest stone blocks used in ancient construction. Construction began in the 1st century BCE under Roman rule and continued for centuries. The temple complex includes a peristyle with towering Corinthian columns, some of which are over 20 meters tall, making them among the tallest of their kind. The site also comprises other notable structures, including the Temple of Bacchus, a smaller but intricately decorated monument. With the rise of Christianity, the temple gradually fell into disuse and was later transformed into a fortress during the medieval period. Today, the Temple of Jupiter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors worldwide for its monumental scale and historical significance.

The Temple of Jupiter in Baalbek is a monumental marvel that defies the passage of time. Its colossal ruins stand as a testament to ancient Roman engineering and grandeur. The sheer size and intricate details of the temple leave you in awe. A must-see archaeological wonder that stirs the imagination.

The soaring colonade, among the tallest Roman columns ever constructed is currently under renovation /protection. They are still impressive and thankfully will be protected for ages to come. From the impressive stairs leading up to the Temple, the views of the Heliopolis complex and the snow capped peaks framing the picturesque Beqaa Valley are super. Visit near sunset to view the Temple of Bacchus next door bathed in full sunlight.

An incredibly well preserved Roman temple site. The Temple of Jupiter would have been superb in it's day, however today there are only a few columns left standing. In fact, the 6 columns "in a row" are, what I have heard, what most Lebanese associate with the Baalbek site. The nearby temple of Bacchus is much better preserved, but in it's day would have been dwarfed by the temple of Jupiter. Well worth the visit if you're in the country.

Biggest Roman temple to be ever built outside Rome. Jupiter Temple was built on the ruins of old Phoenician temple by the Romans to hail Jupiter and warship him. I recommend taking the guided tour at this UNESCO World Heritage site for Lebanese and tourists alike to know some of the great history behind these magnificent ruins. Some photos are tagged as: © Rami Rizk (Twitter: @rami_rizk). Rami Rizk holds the copy rights of this content and has kindly authorized to geotag it. The review does not necessarily reflect his opinion.

A place full of history. Must see while in Lebanon. Temples are colossal and gorgeous.

Taking about ancient structure still standing you don't miss a six columned Temple of Jupiter. Some shocking understanding is that it was built by Cain 1st son of Adam and the giants Angles

Perhaps the most impressive place in whole Lebanon. It is hard to believe that such construction could be built without today’s machinery. There were only few tourist around (less than 15), it was really luxury to enjoy the temple in such conditions. If you are driving there, there is a parking site just in front of the main entrance and it was literarily empty; no need to pay extra money at the private ones you will see about a hundred meters before.