Tripoli, or Trablos as spoken by the locals, is the second-largest city in Lebanon, and the largest in the north with a population of almost 428,000 people. It is deemed the northern capital of Lebanon.
The main sights of Tripoli, include the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles (built by the Crusaders), the Clock Tower, the Hammams (built by the Mamluks), the offshore islands, as well as the countless religious buildings (Christian and Muslim).
However, there is also much to see and admire in the city!
A beautiful city that extends into the sea
In the 9th century BCE, the Phoenicians established a trading station in Tripoli. Later, under Persian rule, the city became the center of a confederation of the Phoenician city-states of Sidon, Tyre, and Arados Island.
Tripoli is Lebanon’s northernmost seaport and it’s also a fishermen port
Al-Tal Clock Tower, a Tripoli Landmark
The tower is over 100 years old. It was built in 1902 by the locals during the Ottman ruling.
The city boasts beautiful architecture
Picturesque “homey” alleys
Tripoli stadium
Tripoli takes pride in its modern International Fair
Bike riding at sunset
Tripoli is home to Lebanon’s only 4 islands
The Palm Islands, which are officially a Nature Reserve, were declared a protected area because of their status as a haven for endangered loggerhead turtles and rare monk seals.
However, one can visit them again since last summer when the government reopened them for tourism.
Sunset at El-Mina
Tripoli hosts the largest Crusader’s fortress in Lebanon
The city of Tripoli dates back to 1400 BC. The Crusader’s fortress is actually quite hard to miss.
Mamluk architectural heritage
Tripoli has the second-largest number of Mamluk architecture on earth (after Cairo in Egypt).
Once upon a time, Tripoli had an important train station
Tripoli’s religious coexistence is relevant across the city
Tripoli boasts local artisans
Tripoli has long gained an excellent reputation in woodwork and wood carving, especially in creating fine and sturdy furniture.
The Lions’ Tower (14th-15th century)
It’s the only one remaining from the 7 guard towers the Mamluks built at Al-Mina Harbor to protect the city from invaders by the sea.
A city of arts and peace
Beautiful Old Tree
Tripoli was once known for its vast orange orchards. During the season of blooming, the pollen of orange flowers was said to be carried on the air, creating a splendid perfume that filled the city and suburbs.
Old traditions that persist
Tripoli is well-worth visiting and exploring. Once you do, don’t miss savoring some of their food specialties that are typical of Tripoli and reputable across the country:
The Samkeh Harra (Spicy Fish) for lunch or dinner, and for a good Lebanese breakfast go for the Lahem b-Ajeen and the Knafeh b-Ashta.
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