Baalbek’s temple complex features the remains of an Islamic-era neighborhood known as Bustan Nassif. Excavations of this sector began in the 1960s–70s, uncovering a well-preserved medieval quarter (14,300 m²), dating to the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods (12th–15th centuries).
It has has been recently excevated and reorganized as part of a larger project to create a new entrance to the site, through which visitors will enter across a medieval gate and the Islamic-period structures, many of which were built using reused Roman architectural elements.
**The sector is currently not accessible for the public**
History
9th – 10th century – Baablek’s temple complex was turned into a fortress
11th – 12th century – The complex is further fortified by the Crusaders, giving it the current stronghold appearance.
1168 AD (563 AH) – The sector was fortified under Nur el-Din Zengi (ruler of Syria during that period) as part of a new city wall.
15th century – The sector declined under Ottoman rule
18th – 19th century – the sector is mostly used for gardening
Archaeological Discoveries
The particularly well-preserved area of 14,300 m2 belongs to the very few large residential area discovered from the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods, which gives it a special historical value.
Foundations of homes, a mosque, a commercial building and a public bath (Hammam) were uncovered. The latter is in a perfect state, and includes basins, water channels, seats, room divisions, and the like. Based
Additionaly, excavations uncovered a large ceramic assemblage, reflecting a consistent use of everyday items—tableware, cooking pots, storage jars, and water jugs—typical of an urban Islamic-era settlement . The material suggests continuous and intensive occupation, supported by architectural remains.
Karim Sokhn
Tour Operator and Tour Guide
References
The Challenges Facing the World Heritage Site of Baalbek and the Importance of the Involvement of the German Archaeological Institute – German Expedition; Margarete van Ess and Jeanine Abdul Massih.
The area of Bustan Nassif (Baalbek) between the 12th and the early 15th cent: the ceramix evidence; Valentina Vezzoli
Baalbek Bustan Nassif, Conservation and presentation of a medieval town quarter
