Nightlife in downtown Beirut. Having finally rebuilt after a 15-year civil war that ended in 1990, Lebanon was again rocked by conflict in 2005 and 2006. But resilient Beirutis are known for having a good time even under the most trying circumstances, and now that peace has returned, their city's revitalized downtown buzzes with activity day and night.  

In the evenings, Beirut's Corniche shows off a mellower side of city life. The seafront promenade is full of strolling families, hand-holding lovers, hawkers selling toys and snacks, and travelers taking it all in.  

This sculpture at the center of Beirut's Martyrs' Square honors Lebanese nationalists killed by the Ottomans during World War I. Right in the heart of downtown Beirut, the square is a focal point for protest. It was the site of anti-Syrian demonstrations during 2005's Cedar Revolution and Hezbollah-led anti-government gatherings in 2007.  

Baalbek, in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, was the site of the ancient Roman city of Heliopolis and some of the empire's grandest temples. Today it's home to some of the best-preserved and most spectacular Roman ruins you'll find anywhere.  

Perched on the edge of a steep valley, the Lebanese town of Bcharre was the birthplace of poet Khalil Gibran. Founded by Maronite Christians in the 7th century, Bcharre was a stronghold of the Lebanese Forces, a Christian militia, during the Lebanese civil war. Today, the mountain town is a popular stop for travelers thanks to its spectacular setting, the Khalil Gibran Museum, and its proximity to Lebanon's famous cedar forests and the nation's only ski resort.  

The Mohmmed Al-Amin Mosque in Beirut's Martyrs' Square was built by former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri, who was buried there after his assassination in 2005. Architect Azmi Fakhuri said the blue-domed mosque was inspired by Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul.  

Tyre, on Lebanon's southern coast, is known for its well-preserved Roman and Phoenician ruins.  

Marking the city's westernmost point and the end of the Corniche promenade, Beirut's Pigeon Rocks are a popular destination for both tourists and locals and a great place to catch a Mediterranean sunset.