Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Archaeological Sites & Ruins

Baalbek

Baalbek, Lebanon

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RUINS & SITES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 11 2026
Baalbek

Roman-era temple complex in Lebanon's Beqaa Valley, known in antiquity as Heliopolis, City of the Sun. Visitors walk among columns and stone blocks of the Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Venus.

Highlights

  • Temple of Jupiter
  • Temple of Bacchus
  • Temple of Venus

Good to know

  • Entry fee differs by nationality, foreigners pay more
  • Guided tours recommended, booked on site
  • Summer heat is intense, bring hat and water

Also in the Middle East

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  4. Jerash N° 15 Jerash Jerash, Jordan Ancient city
  5. Sagalassos N° 16 Sagalassos Ağlasun, Turkey Ancient city
  6. Pyramids of Giza N° 17 Pyramids of Giza Giza, Egypt Pyramid or tomb