Understand

The origin of the name Zahl can be traced back to its Arabic roots, with "moving" being its direct translation. This name reflects the geological nature of the area, which is characterized by its sliding terrain. In contrast, the nearby town of Mouallaka derives its name from the Arabic word meaning "fixed," highlighting its geological stability.

Get in

If you're traveling from bustling Beirut to the vibrant city of Zahl, there are convenient transportation options available. Hop on one of the buses departing from Cola, and they will drop you off at the highway, which is on the way to Ba'albek in the north. From there, it's just a short 20-minute walk to the city center, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the hidden gems. If you prefer a more comfortable ride, you might be able to catch a service taxi for a convenient and hassle-free journey.

Map & Climate

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: FalafelFalafel is a traditional Lebanese dish made from mashed chickpeas, herbs (such as parsley and coriander), and spices, formed into small balls or patties and deep-fried until crispy. It's typically served in sandwiches called shawarma or kebbeh, accompanied by pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce or hummus. Falafel can also be enjoyed as a mezze, an appetizer often shared among friends. The dish is mainly vegetarian but can sometimes include small amounts of meat in the form of ground beef or lamb in the kebbeh.

Dish: ShawarmaShawarma refers to both a cooking technique and a dish. In Lebanon, it commonly involves marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) that is slowly roasted on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served in sandwiches or on a platter. The flavorful meat is often accompanied by pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and various sauces such as tahini, garlic, or spicy sauces. While shawarma is typically wrapped in pita bread, it can also be enjoyed over rice or salad. This dish is rarely vegetarian, as it primarily focuses on the marinated and rotating meat.

Dish: Kibbeh nayyeKibbeh nayye, also known simply as kibbeh, is a popular Lebanese dish made from finely ground raw beef or lamb mixed with bulgur wheat, onions, and spices. The mixture is traditionally formed into oval or torpedo shapes and baked in the oven or fried. It's often served with a side of yogurt, pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes. Some variations of the dish may include additional ingredients, such as pine nuts or mint, but it remains predominantly non-vegetarian.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing