Beirut in 3 minutes by Zaheeruddin Babar
Geographical location of Beirut
Beirut, the capital and largest city of Lebanon, is situated on a peninsula at the midpoint of Mediterranean coast, nestled at the foot of the Lebanon Mountains. Beirut has been a significant cultural, economic, and intellectual hub in the Arab Middle East.
History of Beirut
Beirut was originally settled by the Phoenicians around 3000BC and was known as Bêrūt, meaning “The Wells,” due to its underground water supply.Beirut was assimilated into the Roman Empire in 64 BC.In 635 AD, Beirut was captured by the Arabs, marking the beginning of Islamic influence in the region.The city was held by the Christian Crusaders from 1110 to 1291, after which it was dominated by the Mamlūk dynasty. Beirut came under Ottoman control in 1516 and remained part of the Ottoman Empire until the end of World War I and Beirut became part of the French Mandate of Lebanon. It gained independence along with Lebanon in 1943. The city has since experienced significant growth and development, despite periods of conflicts.
Demography and Ethnicity of Beirut
Beirut has a population of 2.5 million, which makes it the third-largest city in the Levant region. Arabic is the official language, but French and English are also widely spoken. The majority of Beirut’s residents are ethnically Arab. Beirut is religiously diverse, with significant Muslim and Christian communities. East Beirut is almost solidly Christian, West Beirut is predominantly Muslim, and a number of mixed neighborhoods are cosmopolitan in character.
Climate of Beirut
Beirut experiences a sub-tropical climate with hot humid summer and cool temperate winters.
Street Plans of Beirut
Street plans and block arrangements in the city and its suburbs are not consistent or uniform. In most quarters, modern high-rise buildings, walk-up apartments, slum tenements, modern villas, and traditional two-story houses stand side by side. 
Nejmeh Square Beirut
Nejmeh Square, the central square of Beirut, features the iconic clock tower and is surrounded by cafes and shops.
Roman Baths Beirut
Nejmeh Square also includes ancient Roman bath ruins.
Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque Beirut
The Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, with its striking blue dome, symbolizes the city’s Islamic heritage
Saint George Maronite Cathedral Beirut
while the nearby Saint George Maronite Cathedral showcases Beirut’s religious diversity.
