List of rivers of Lebanon facts for kids
Lebanon is a beautiful country in the Middle East. It has many mountains and a long coastline along the Mediterranean Sea. Did you know that Lebanon is also home to 22 rivers? These rivers are very important for the country's nature and people. None of them are big enough for boats, but they still play a huge role!
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Lebanon's Rivers: A Lifeline of Water
Lebanon is a land of mountains and valleys, and its rivers are a key part of its geography. These waterways provide fresh water for plants, animals, and people. Even though you can't use them for boating, they are vital for life across the country.
Where Do Lebanon's Rivers Begin?
Most of Lebanon's rivers, about 28 of them, start high up in the Lebanon Mountains. They flow down steep valleys and empty into the Mediterranean Sea. The other six rivers begin in the Beqaa Valley, which is a large, fertile plain between mountain ranges.
Rivers Flowing West to the Sea
Many rivers in Lebanon start in the western part of the mountains. They make their way to the Mediterranean Sea. Some of these rivers were known by different names in ancient times. Here are a few examples:
- The Nahr al-Kabir al-Janoubi was once called the Eleutherus.
- The Kadisha River is also known as Nahr Abu Ali.
- The Abraham River was called Adonis in ancient times.
- The Nahr al-Kalb is also known as the Dog River. Its ancient name was Lycus.
- The Beirut River flows through the capital city and was once called Magoras.
- The Damour River was known as Damoros or Tamyras long ago.
- The Awali River had ancient names like Bostrenus or Asclepius.
These rivers carve out impressive gorges as they rush towards the sea. They are important for the local ecosystems and for providing water to nearby towns and farms.
Rivers from the Beqaa Valley
A few important rivers in Lebanon begin in the Beqaa Valley. This valley is a significant agricultural area. These rivers often flow differently than those heading straight to the sea.
- The Litani River is the longest river in Lebanon. It is also known as the Qasimiyeh River and was called Leontes in ancient times. It flows south through the Beqaa Valley before turning west towards the Mediterranean Sea.
- The Asi River is also known as the Orontes. This river flows north, eventually reaching Syria and Turkey.
- The Hasbani River is another river that starts in Lebanon. It is also known as Nahal Snir and flows south, becoming part of the Jordan River system.
These rivers are crucial for irrigating the fertile lands of the Beqaa Valley, helping farmers grow many crops.
See also
- List of mountains in Lebanon
