Lebanon is located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, and is considered the gateway to the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Africa. Its area is 10452 sq km. It has a beautiful nature, beaches and green mountains. [photos]

The official name is the "Republic of Lebanon" (or the "Lebanese Republic"). The name is spelled in Arabic as Lubnan, Lebnan, Libnan or Loubnan.

Beirut is the capital of Lebanon and the largest city. Other main cities include: Tripoli, Saida, Byblos, Baalbek, Tyre, Zahle, Nabatieh, Jounieh, Batroun and Beiteddine.

The estimated population of Lebanon is around 4 millions, with over 11 million Lebanese living abroad. The main spoken languages are Arabic, French, English and Armenian.

Lebanon has witnessed big prosperity after the Lebanese War (1975-1990) driven by tourism, art, media, fashion and banking sectors.

Lebanon attracts large numbers of tourists every year. The level of hospitality and service in Lebanon hotels and restaurants are known to be the highest and finest in the world.

Lebanese food is considered one of the healthiest and most famous cuisines worldwide. Some of the Lebanese national dishes include tabouleh, hummus, falafel, kibbe and fattoush.