Aley
Aley
عاليه | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Country |  Lebanon |
| Governorate | Mount Lebanon Governorate |
| District | Aley District |
| Elevation | 3,000 ft (1,000 m) |
| Time zone | UTC+2 (EET) |
| • Summer (DST) | +3 |
Aley is a picturesque town in Mount Lebanon. It is located 17 km uphill from Beirut, just south of the summer resort of Bhamdoun and north of the strategic town of Souk El Gharb.
Demographics
The natives of Aley are predominantly Druze; however, there are Christian Melkite, Orthodox, and Maronite populations. Many outsiders, especially from the Persian Gulf, own homes in Aley where they spend their summers, escaping the heat and humidity in their own countries.
Etymology
The word "aley" derivatives from Aramaic, and means "high place," referring to the town's high altitude above sea level.
History
Aley gained prominence when the railroad that passed through it was built between 1892 and 1895. The railroad linked the Lebanese capital of Beirut to Damascus. The railroad provided the residents of Beirut easy means of transportation to the mountains, and this made Aley a popular destination to spend the summer months and enjoy its pleasant climate.[1] The town was for a while the summer capital of the Ottoman governors of Mount Lebanon. A Jewish community once frequented this multi-cultural town, and they maintained a synagogue [1], but it has since been abandoned. In 2001, the municipality of Aley began renovating the town center, especially its historic souk, and the town quickly revived its role in Lebanon's tourism.[2]
Tourism
Aley is a major tourist destination in Lebanon and the Middle East. Its location and climate made it a favorable venue for shopping and dining, especially for wealthy Arabs from the Gulf states. This resort town with its increasing number of tourists and visitors has become one of the most flourishing resort towns in Mount Lebanon, and thus has garnered its historical name as "The Bride of Summers". The "Souk Aley" is a relatively long boulevard lined with palm trees; there are numerous redroofed stone houses erected on the east side of the street while several street cafes, outdoor restaurants, and nightlife pubs occupy its western side. In addition to these, there are tens of antique shops and retail boutiques along the street, which forms the heart of Aley. Aley also hosts a well-known casino.
References
External links
- Government of Lebanon Tourism Site Brochure featuring local maps
