Reaching St. John-Marc Cathedral in Byblos Old Town, Lebanon
St. John-Marc Cathedral is a significant historical and religious site located in the heart of Byblos Old Town, Lebanon. If you are planning to visit this ancient cathedral, here is how you can reach it:
By Car
If you are coming from Beirut, Byblos is approximately 37 kilometers to the north along the coastal highway. The journey usually takes around 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
- Starting from Beirut, head north on the Beirut-Tripoli highway.
- Follow the signs leading to Byblos (locally known as Jbeil).
- Once in Byblos, continue towards the Old Town and look for signs directing you to St. John-Marc Cathedral.
- There are several parking options available around the Old City where you can park your car and walk to the cathedral.
By Public Transportation
From Beirut, you can take a bus or a shared taxi ("service") that is headed towards Tripoli and ask to be dropped off at Byblos.
- Bus services are available from Charles Helou Bus Station or Dawra.
- Tell the driver you are going to Byblos; they will know the closest drop-off point.
- Once in Byblos, you may need to take a short taxi ride or walk to reach the Old Town and the cathedral.
By Organized Tour
Many local tourism companies organize day trips to Byblos from Beirut that include transportation and a guided tour. This could be a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport or drive:
- Look for reputable tour guides or agencies that offer trips to Byblos.
- Ensure that the tour includes a visit to St. John-Marc Cathedral.
By Taxi
If you prefer a more direct and comfortable means of travel, hiring a private taxi from Beirut is also an option:
- Taxis can be hailed in Beirut or booked in advance through your hotel or a taxi app.
- Agree on a price before you start your journey to avoid any misunderstanding.
Note that the opening hours of St. John-Marc Cathedral may vary, especially during religious holidays, so it would be best to confirm these before planning your visit.