Overview
Lebanon, officially known as the Lebanese Republic, is a small but historically significant country located in the Levant region of West Asia. Situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Basin and the Arabian Peninsula, it occupies a strategically important position that has shaped its role as a cultural and commercial link between East and West for millennia.
Geography and Borders
Lebanon is bordered by Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south, while the Mediterranean Sea forms its western coastline. The island nation of Cyprus lies a short distance offshore. Despite covering an area of only 10,452 square kilometres (4,036 square miles), making it one of the smaller sovereign states in Asia, Lebanon's geography is remarkably varied, encompassing coastal plains, mountain ranges, and fertile valleys.
- Northern and eastern border: Syria
- Southern border: Israel
- Western border: The Mediterranean Sea
- Nearby island: Cyprus
Population and Capital
Lebanon is home to a population of more than five million people. The country's capital and largest city is Beirut, a major urban center on the Mediterranean coast that has long served as a hub for commerce, culture, and politics in the region.
Cultural and Regional Significance
As part of the Levant, Lebanon shares deep historical and cultural ties with its neighboring countries. Its position at the meeting point of the Mediterranean world and the Arabian Peninsula has made it a crossroads for trade, migration, and cultural exchange throughout history, contributing to the country's diverse heritage and its enduring importance within West Asia.