Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut is the largest city and the capital of Lebanon, located in the central coastal part of the country. It is situated on a small peninsula overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and has a triangular-shaped municipality. The total area of the city is estimated at about 8 square miles. The southern and southeastern parts of the city are protected by the Lebanon Mountains, including Mount Al-Musaytibah and Mount Al-Ashrafieh.

Beirut has a long coastline of nearly 18 miles, mainly rocky with a few comfortable sandy beaches. The city is about 70 miles northwest of Damascus, 140 miles north of Tel Aviv, and 115 miles southeast of Cyprus.

The downtown area is located in the northern part of the municipality. Central districts include Al Marfa'a, Majidiyeh, Ain Al Mraiseh, Al Zarif, Al Kantari, Patriarcat, Bachoura, Mar Maroun, Remeil, Al Hikmeh, and others. Outskirts include Mala'ab Al Baladi, UNESCO District, Qasqas, Palais De Justice, and others. The large satellite city of Bourj Hammoud is situated in the western part of the municipality.

Beirut is a historic city and a key industrial and business center in Lebanon. Attractions include the National Museum of Beirut, Robert Mouawad Private Museum, Sursock Museum, Beirut Souks shopping mall, and the Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator.