+1(647)-330-9292
Consulate Hours: Mon–Fri, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Call ahead to book an appointment
info@lebaneseconulatetoronto.com

About Lebanon

History of Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut, the vibrant heart of Lebanon, stands as a city shaped by thousands of years of history, blending ancient civilizations with modern resilience. Over the centuries, it has evolved through triumphs and trials to become one of the most dynamic capitals in the Middle East

See History Timeline

Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and resilience. It has been a key Mediterranean port and a cultural crossroads for thousands of years. Below is a summary of key historical milestones in the city:

64 BCE

Roman Influence

Beirut rose to prominence in the Roman Empire. Home to the world-renowned Roman law school of “Berytus,” it became a key legal and cultural center.

1516–1918

Ottoman Era

400 years of Ottoman rule shaped Beirut’s architecture and traditions. From souks to mosques and civic buildings, many Ottoman influences remain part of the city's historic fabric.

1943

Independence from France

Lebanon declared independence on November 22, 1943. Beirut flourished as a center for culture, tourism, and finance in the Arab world.

1975–1990

Civil War Period

Beirut endured a 15-year civil war. Despite devastation, the city emerged with renewed hope, rebuilding itself street by street.

2000

Liberation of South Lebanon

Israel withdrew from most of South Lebanon after 22 years of occupation. This historic moment restored national sovereignty and became a symbol of Lebanese resistance and unity, celebrated annually as Resistance and Liberation Day.

2025

Urban Renewal & Innovation

Beirut is embracing its future. With smart city projects, sustainable architecture, and tech-driven growth, the capital blends heritage with progress.

Lebanon's Top Destinations

Lebanese Cuisine

Known worldwide for its freshness, variety, and bold flavors, Lebanese cuisine is considered one of the healthiest in the world. Centered around olive oil, fresh

Read More »

Music & Dance

Lebanese music blends Arab, Byzantine, Turkish, and French influences, creating a distinctive sound. The dabke, a traditional folk dance, is performed at celebrations, with dancers

Read More »

Crafts & Artisans

Ramen graphical user interface stealth. Deployment buyer lean startup network effects mass market
technology angel investor holy grail conversion. Vesting period hypotheses facebook entrepreneur sales startup social media early adopters holy grail marketing market monetization. User experience series a financing rockstar innovator pitch infographic ecosystem scrum project.

Read More »

Festivals & Celebrations

Ramen graphical user interface stealth. Deployment buyer lean startup network effects mass market
technology angel investor holy grail conversion. Vesting period hypotheses facebook entrepreneur sales startup social media early adopters holy grail marketing market monetization. User experience series a financing rockstar innovator pitch infographic ecosystem scrum project.

Read More »
Icons of Lebanese Music and Soulful Artistry

Discover the timeless voices and melodies that shaped the heart of Lebanon.

Wadih El Safi – The Soul of Lebanon
The Rahbani Brothers – Architects of Lebanese Art
Legacy

The Lebanese Flag – A Symbol of Unity and Pride

Bold, simple, and full of meaning, the Lebanese flag stands as a powerful emblem of resilience and hope. Its red stripes symbolize the sacrifice of the people, the white represents peace and the snow of the mountains, and at its heart stands the evergreen cedar tree — a symbol of eternity, strength, and Lebanon’s deep roots in history. Waving proudly, the flag unites all Lebanese under one identity, no matter where they are in the world.

Flag used by Lebanese Maronites in the 19th century, and first raised as a Lebanese flag in 1918 (1918–1920)
Shukri El Khoury [ar]'s proposed flag featuring red and blue triangles added to honor the French mandate (1918)
) Flag of the State of Greater Lebanon during the French mandate (1920–1943; variant)
Common variant of the flag of Lebanon (1990–present)
Presidents of the Lebanese Republic

A look back at the presidents who guided Lebanon through its history.

Joseph Aoun
Michel Aoun
Michel Suleiman
Émile Lahoud
Elias Hrawi
René Moawad

1832 Pine Grove Avenue Pickering, ON L1V 1K6

Mon–Fri, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

© 2025 EMBASSY OF LEBANON. All rights reserved. Designed by Beyond Limits Marketing.