Ras Baalbek is home to three churches, each built atop the remains of Roman-era temples, one of which is discussed in a separate article: Saint-Barbara Church
Although formal studies have yet to be conducted on site, I am sharing my personal observations drawn from years of exploring such magnificent monuments, hoping that future research and excavation works may bring more attention to these relics.
Structure
Located at an elevation of 1,100 meters, the church of Saint-Thomas stands on a massive podium built from large boulders, signifying an important temple during antiquity. This podium, which offers a commanding view of Ras Baalbek and the surrounding areas, has been restored using cement, a material not considered appropriate by today’s archaeological standards. The church itself was built using stone fragments from the former temple, while its construction date is unknown.
It is also worth noting that Ras Baalbek might be associated with the ancient site of “Conna,” a notable station mentioned in the Itinerarium Antonini Augusti. This could explain the area’s rich concentration of temples.
Karim Sokhn
Tour Operator & Tour Guide
