Bustan Nassif – Baalbek

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.