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Nahr al-Kalb

Coordinates: 33°57′N 35°36′E / 33.950°N 35.600°E / 33.950; 35.600
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Nahr El-Kalb in 1965

The Nahr al-Kalb (Arabic: نهر الكلب, meaning Dog River) is a river in Lebanon. It runs for 31 km (19 mi) from a spring in Jeita near the Jeita Grotto to the Mediterranean Sea.

Christ the king overlooking the river basin

Historical Significance

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The Nahr al-Kalb is the ancient Lycus River.[1] The river mouth is renowned for its Commemorative stelae of Nahr el-Kalb, featuring inscriptions from various civilizations.[2] Past generals and conquerors have traditionally built monuments at the mouth of the Nahr al-Kalb, known as the Commemorative stelae of Nahr el-Kalb. The notable inscriptions are of: Assyrian, Babylonian, Roman, Crusader, Ottoman, and modern era.[2]

The entire site of the Nahr el-Kelb valley with the archaeological sites it conceals is classified on the indicative list of UNESCO world heritage.[3]

Geography

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The river originates at a low altitude from a source that originates from the Jeita Grotto.

Recent Developments

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As of February 2025, the site remains a focus of historical research and preservation. In November 2023, digital documentation of the cuneiform inscriptions was carried out to support their preservation and study.[4]

Notes

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  1. ^ "Commemorative stela of Nahr el-Kalb, Mount Lebanon | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization". www.unesco.org. Retrieved 2018-06-26.
  2. ^ a b "Stelae of Nahr el-Kalb". Atlas Obscura. Retrieved 2025-02-02.
  3. ^ Centre, UNESCO World Heritage. "Lebanon - UNESCO World Heritage Convention". UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 2023-12-07.
  4. ^ "Nahr El Kalb Cuneiform inscriptions, Lebanon". Factum Foundation. Retrieved 2025-02-02.

33°57′N 35°36′E / 33.950°N 35.600°E / 33.950; 35.600