Majdel Anjar

Majdel Anjar is a town located in the central Beqaa Valley in Lebanon, near the Lebanese-Syrian border. It is distinguished by its strategic location along the international highway connecting Beirut and Damascus, making it an important commercial hub throughout history.

Geographical Location:
Majdel Anjar is approximately 55 kilometers east of Beirut and 7 kilometers west of the Lebanese-Syrian border.
It is situated at an elevation of about 970 meters above sea level.
Surrounded by the Eastern Lebanon Mountain Range and the Beqaa Valley, the town enjoys stunning natural scenery.

Historical Overview:
The origins of Majdel Anjar date back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting it has been inhabited since the Roman era.
Archaeological finds in the area include stone columns and rock-cut tombs from that period.
The town's name reflects its historical legacy: “Majdel” means tower or fortress, while “Anjar” may derive from “Ain Jarrah,” meaning a spring or water source.
During the Umayyad era, the region was close to the historic city of Anjar, which was built as a summer capital for the Umayyad Caliphate.

Modern Significance:
Today, Majdel Anjar serves as a commercial center and local marketplace catering to residents of the area and neighboring villages.
The town is renowned for the hospitality of its people and its agricultural activities, particularly the cultivation of fruit trees and grains.

Population:
The population of Majdel Anjar is estimated to be around 25,000 residents. Additionally, the town hosts a large number of Syrian refugees, with some estimates indicating between 23,000 to 25,000 refugees in the area. However, there are no recent official statistics to confirm these numbers with precision.