A place of worship
The echo of ancient ceremonies A roman temple standing on a terrace facing the Afqa cave, the largest of the sources of the river Adonis, still marks the site. This temple was dedicated to the worship of the goddess Venus/Astarte and the Phoenician God Adonis and was probably built on the ruins of an older structure, above a water source, which channeled water from the main spring of Afqa. These channels are still visible on the north side of the temple.
With the spread of Christianity, the temple was converted into a church, which later collapsed due to an earthquake.
This site is described by numerous historians (Zozymus, Ernest Renan and Henri Seyrig).
Lately, the APJM has refurbished an old house at the site in partnership with the DGA, to be used by the site’s security guards.
Quick overview
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Opening days
Open daily
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Opening times
All day
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How to reach
By car/bus:
From Beirut Airport to Afqa by private transportation. The total distance is approximately 62 km
Additional Info
Jabal Moussa Biosphere reserve entrance fee:
4 USD adults over 16
2 USD children under 16
Please gear up with hiking shoes, hiking stick (optional), backpack, energy bars, 1L of water/person, sunscreen
Make sure to inform us in advance if you have a health condition
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
Visiting Rules
Basic rules:
No hunting
No picking flowers and plants
No smoking or lighting fires
No pets
