Lebanon is located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, and is considered the gateway to the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Africa. Its area is 10,452 sq km. Check out Lebanon photos to view the beautiful nature, beaches and green mountains.

The official name of Lebanon is the "Republic of Lebanon" (or sometimes the "Lebanese Republic"). The name is spelled in Arabic as Lubnan, Lebnan, Libnan or Loubnan.

Lebanon has witnessed big prosperity after the Lebanese War (1975-1990), driven by tourism, art, media, fashion and banking sectors.

Beirut is the capital of Lebanon and the largest city. Other main cities in Lebanon include: Tripoli, Saida, Byblos, Baalbek, Tyre, Zahle, Nabatieh, Jounieh, Batroun and Beiteddine.

Lebanon attracts large numbers of tourists every year. The level of hospitality and service in Lebanon hotels and restaurants are known to be the highest and finest in the world.

The estimated population of Lebanon is around 4 millions, and over 11 million Lebanese living abroad. The main spoken languages are Arabic, French, English and Armenian.

Lebanese food is considered one of the healthiest and most famous cuisines worldwide. Some of the Lebanese national dishes include tabouleh, hummus, falafel and kibbe.