Lebanon continues to reveal significant archaeological findings that underscore its rich historical heritage, despite the ongoing disruptions caused by the recent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Excavations at key sites in southern Lebanon have largely paused due to the war, but some discoveries elsewhere in the country highlight the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations.

Among the notable sites is a Roman temple complex in Maasser al-Shouf, located in the mountains southeast of Beirut near an ancient cedar forest. This temple, dating from approximately the first century BCE to the second century CE, was later converted into a Crusader fortress during the 12th and 13th centuries. Myriam Ziade, a regional antiquities official with Lebanon’s culture ministry, described the site as part of a broader system of structures and roads connecting the Mediterranean coast to the Bekaa Valley. Excavations at the Maasser al-Shouf temple began in 2022 with an Italian university team, following the initial discovery of large stone blocks in 2017. Archaeological work is expected to resume there soon.

Further east, the city of Baalbek is home to one of Lebanon’s most famous Roman temple complexes, renowned for its preservation and location near the border with Syria. The nation’s archaeological wealth spans numerous eras, including Phoenician, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, Crusader, Arab, and Islamic periods.

However, the outbreak of hostilities in March, when Hezbollah’s involvement prompted Israeli airstrikes and a ground invasion in southern Lebanon, has had a substantial impact on archaeological activities. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) added several Lebanese sites to its World Heritage in Danger list last month, recognizing the threat to cultural landmarks. Among those listed are the southern coastal city of Tyre, known for its Roman triumphal arch and second-century hippodrome, and multiple castles in the Jabal Amel region, including the Crusader-era Beaufort fortress, which Israeli forces seized in May.

Sarkis Khoury, head of antiquities at Lebanon’s culture ministry, noted that the conflict has necessitated a shift in focus toward protecting sites at risk, particularly in the south and in the Bekaa region. “Excavations in dangerous areas have come to a halt, and archaeological missions are experiencing minimal activity nationwide, especially in southern Lebanon,” Khoury said. He added that foreign archaeological teams have largely ceased their operations in the country.

Despite these challenges, some fieldwork continues in safer regions. In Batroun, a northern coastal city, archaeologists have uncovered a Roman-era olive press alongside pottery weights and tools related to textile production on private land. Nearby, excavations revealed two stone quarries—one Roman and one Phoenician—as well as rooms and large storage jars linked to the city’s ancient harbor. These findings highlight Batroun’s historical role as a bustling commercial center. Tombs from various periods have also been identified in the area.

In Beirut, where human settlement spans more than 5,000 years, archaeological excavations proceed amid urban development. Laure Salloum, the official in charge of digs in the capital, described many current projects as rescue excavations prompted by construction. Recent discoveries include the remains of a Roman olive press and ongoing efforts to locate additional parts of a Roman hippodrome first uncovered years ago. Other significant accidental finds have included a 2,000-year-old Roman bathhouse, which have at times delayed building plans.

Lebanese antiquities authorities emphasize that new findings continue to emerge across the country, reflecting Lebanon’s position at the crossroads of multiple civilizations and historical upheavals. Despite the current unrest, the nation’s archaeological heritage remains a vital link to its extensive and diverse past.