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Bentael |
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 The
Bentael Nature Reserve was created by the Law No.11 on February
25, 1999. In the absence of a proper Management team, the site is managed by the Bentael Nature Reserve
Committee under the supervision of the Ministry of
Environment.
Bentael Nature Reserve is located in the foothills of Mount
Lebanon northeast
of Byblos. Being one of
the smallest nature reserves in Lebanon (1.5 square km), this
reserve is noteworthy because of its history. Founded in 1981,
this site was bequeathed to the Ministry of the
Environment by the people of the village of Bentael. It was
one of the first reserves to be created in Lebanon and set an
example for the need to conserve Lebanon’s natural heritage. The
reserve is situated in the flight path of migratory hawks,
eagles and other raptors and is enjoyed by bird enthusiasts.
Visitors can access the reserve via one of two entrances: one
near the village of Mechehlène and the other in the upper
region of Bentael.
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Archeological Sites
 Invisible to tourists at first site, the determined visitor
can find St. John’s rock-cut hermitage and chapel. This 12th
century dwelling is located 8m above the ground. Visitors can
reach it from the hiking trails. It is composed of three
cavities. The first, located approximately 8m from the bottom
of the hill, was only accessible by ropes. Researchers believe
this cavity was used for habitation and as a refuge in case of
attack. The opening to the cave is partially enclosed by a
stone wall. The second cavity shelters the remains of St.
John’s chapel. The third cavity houses a water reservoir
approximately 2.5m deep and 2m wide. It was used to collect
rain water. At the entrance to this cavity stand two old oak
trees.
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