Temple of the obelisks

Can you imagine walking through the ruins of a temple that was built over 4,000 years ago? This is the Temple of the Obelisks, also known as the L-shaped Temple and Temple of Resheph. This temple is a Bronze Age temple located in Byblos, which sits on the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon. You are standing in front of a temple that has been around for centuries. The Temple of the Obelisks is indeed one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Lebanon. It is considered “perhaps the most spectacular” of the ancient structures of Byblos. The temple was named for the small obelisks that stood in the court and were dedicated to the Canaanite god Resheph. The temple was excavated by French archaeologist Maurice Dunand throughout the 20th century. You stand before a testament to human ingenuity. The temple was constructed around 2600 BC and remained in use for centuries until it was burned down at the end of the Early Bronze Age. Did you know that part of the roof from the original temple was moved 40 meters east when the temple was excavated? It was moved so archaeologists could excavate the L-shaped foundation on which the temple was built. The obelisks that give the temple its name are also incredibly fascinating. They were set up as religious offerings by devotees and give us a glimpse into the religious practices of the people who lived here thousands of years ago. The Temple of the Obelisks is a must-see for anyone visiting Byblos. It is a reminder of the rich history and culture of this ancient city.