The true, breathtaking beauty of Lebanon, which many forgot about because of the war

What comes to mind when we mention the Middle East? Most often, a striking contrast comes between the endless oil wealth and the terrible wars and terrorist attacks. But we do not pay attention to the beautiful nature stretching between the seas and valleys.

Lebanon is a true paradise of this part of the world, a country located between Syria and the Mediterranean Sea, also neighboring with Israel and Cyprus. It is a relatively small state with nonetheless inspiring and diverse landscapes. There are mountains, a wonderful sea coast and impressive valleys. Everything is so close that in just a few hours you can get from a ski resort to a sunny beach.

The capital Beirut is considered one of the oldest cities in the world. Just imagine: he is more than 5000 years old! Given all the above data, this territory is endowed with such a rich culture that you can study it for years, and still not get to the end. That is why Lebanon is proudly called the "pearl of the Middle East." Travelers in crowds gather in the country to see all its wonders.

However, with the outbreak of hostilities in Syria in 2010, much has changed here. Since then, the number of annual foreign guests in Lebanon has fallen by 38%. The war in the neighboring state has become destructive for the Lebanese economy. And although the fear of tourists before the events in Syria is understandable, the mesmerizing beauty of the Middle Eastern pearl cannot be ignored. This is what the 29-year-old photographer from Jezzine, Rami Rizk, wants to tell all the inhabitants of the Earth. Rizk devoted his last year's photo project, “Lebanon, the Way You Never See It”, to the magnificent landscapes of the country, surrounded by greenery, mountains and valleys, cities and their amazing architecture.