Discovering The Old Souk of Byblos

Didn’t I say that I’d be back to Byblos one more time this trip? This time around, it was to visit the old Souk. Although it’s right next to the pier, we skipped it on our last trip. Yesterday though, we dedicated a whole afternoon to stroll around the old Souk and enjoyed it.

Tucked under historic arches, in ancient stone houses are dozens of little shops. With wooden doors wide open, welcoming you in to browse and buy antiques, souvenirs and more. There’s even a small shop selling fossils discovered right there in Byblos.

My favorite shop though is a little spice shop. You can find it right in the middle of the lower part of the Souk. You can’t miss it, the aroma will indicate you’re on the right track.

Big baskets of dried flowers and herbs neatly arranged outside decorate the entrance of the shop. Inside, you’ll find all the spices of Lebanese cuisine and more. All fresh and of high quality, it’s a food lover’s heaven! If you’re not sensitive to strong smells, just go inside and take a sniff. The air smells of a mix of ancient stones and spices… It’s really hard to describe. Some might find it overwhelming, others, like me, will love it!

The old cobblestone path of the Souk will lead your way to the Phoenician ruins. Standing tall in the middle of the souk, the ruins are a small reminder of how ancient this city is. Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and wherever you look you’re constantly reminded of its rich history. You can also stop by St. John-Mark church dating back to the Crusades.

In between the shops, there are some restaurants, cafes and bars. Make sure to stop a cafe for a traditional cup of coffee before heading back home. At night when the shops are closed, the bars take over the place and set up outdoors for a night of fun. Can you imagine partying in a historic souk?… Well, it’s something you’ll have to experience yourself!

XoXo,

Tamara

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28 Comments

  4. Andreea Birsan
    April 24, 2017 / 7:56 am

    It looks like an amazing place to visit! Loved your pictures and the off shoulder contrasting top looks amazing on you! Can’t wait to see your next travel pictures. Have a lovely week! xx

    Andreea,
    http://couturezilla.com/

    Reply
  5. Shireen L. Platt
    April 24, 2017 / 8:03 am

    The photography is stunning in this post, Tamara and you managed to capture the essence of the place really well.

    Reply
  6. Jalisa
    April 24, 2017 / 8:33 am

    Wow, I love the sound of Souk, it sounds like a never ending fair or bazaar! I’ve always wanted to visit Lebanon, I love the culture and food; my mom has quite a few friends from there 🙂 As for your outfit, I love the ruffled top and how it looks paired with the white denim, you look absolutely gorgeous! Thanks so much for sharing, beauty, and I hope you have a great week ahead!

    XO,

    Jalisa
    http://www.thestylecontour.com

    Reply
  7. Jaz
    April 24, 2017 / 9:49 am

    I love Lebanese food and have always wanted to visit Lebanon. You have captured it beautifully, your pictures are stunning! Love the frill sleeves and white jean combo too.
    Thanks for sharing,
    Jaz xoxo
    http://www.thelifeofasocialbutterfly.co.uk

    Reply
  8. Kelsey&Kenecha
    April 24, 2017 / 2:42 pm

    Such a beautiful place! I am also loving your blouse doll x

    Florals&Smiles

    Reply
  19. PerlaGiselle
    April 25, 2017 / 10:47 pm

    These pictures are amazing and I love the top. Thank you for taking us on this journey!
    -PerlaGiselle
    iamperlita.com

    Reply
  27. Adi
    April 29, 2017 / 1:19 pm

    You look so stunning!! and that top is so cute!
    Adi xx
    fancycorrectitude.com
    instagram.com/fancycorrectitude

    Reply

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