The Nahr al-Kalb (, meaning Dog River) is a river in Lebanon. It runs for from a spring in Jeita near the Jeita Grotto to the Mediterranean Sea.
Historical significance
The Nahr al-Kalb is the ancient Lycus River.
The river mouth is renowned for its Commemorative stelae of Nahr el-Kalb, featuring inscriptions from various civilizations.
Past generals and conquerors have traditionally built
at the mouth of the Nahr al-Kalb, known as the Commemorative stelae of Nahr el-Kalb. The notable inscriptions are of: Assyrian,
Babylonia,
Roman Empire,
Crusades,
Ottoman Empire, and modern era.
The entire site of the Nahr el-Kelb valley with the archaeological sites it conceals is classified on the indicative list of UNESCO world heritage.
Geography
The river originates at a low altitude from a source that originates from the
Jeita Grotto.
Recent developments
As of February 2025, the site remains a focus of historical research and preservation. In November 2023, digital documentation of the cuneiform inscriptions was carried out to support their preservation and study.
Notes