Ouadi Qadisha UNESCO World Heritage site.

Ouadi Qadisha, is a gorge that lies within the Becharre and Zgharta Districts of the North Governorate of Lebanon. The valley was carved by the Kadisha River, also known as the Nahr Abu Ali when it reaches Tripoli.

Kadisha means “Holy” in Aramaic, and the valley, sometimes called the Holy Valley. It has sheltered Christian monastic communities for many centuries. The valley is located at the foot of Mount al-Makmal in northern Lebanon.

The integrity of the Valley is at risk due to encroachment of human settlements, illegal building and inconsistent conservation activity. Although it is not yet on the UNESCO “in danger” list, there have been warnings that continued violations may lead to this step.

Beneath the snow-lined Lebanon Mountains, the remote cliffs and caves of Qadisha Valley recall the early history of Christian monasticism. Video National Geographic

Photo: cavinglebanon.com