How many caves are there in Lebanon?
More than 1000 caves have been explored and reported in Lebanon by the SCL. The SCL has discovered some of the deepest and longest caves in Lebanon.
Why is Jeita Grotto famous?
It is one of the most impressive and interesting natural sites in the world. The grotto was discovered in 1836 by an American missionary who, venturing some 50 m into the cave, fired a shot from his gun and found a cavern of major importance. Jeita Grotto is the superb work of Mother Nature.
Is Jeita Grotto one of the 7 Wonders?
Aside from being a Lebanese national symbol and a top tourist destination, the Jeita grotto plays an important social, economic and cultural role in the country. It was one of top 14 finalists in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition.
How high and wide is Jeita Grotto?
Located 18 kilometres north of Beirut, the gigantic Jeita Grotto’s interconnected caves are among the most impressive in the world. Located in Nahr al-Kalb, about 350 metres above sea level in a wide green valley, these vestiges of prehistory are an absolutely unique spectacle.
How are stalactites formed?
As the redeposited minerals build up after countless water drops, a stalactite is formed. If the water that drops to the floor of the cave still has some dissolved calcite in it, it can deposit more dissolved calcite there, forming a stalagmite. Speleothems form at varying rates as calcite crystals build up.
What is so special about the Jeita Grotto?
Jeita Grotto, nine mysterious kilometres of 9 km of subterranean caves, is the longest such complex in the Middle East and was a contender for the “New Seven Wonders of Nature” . Amazingly , the stalactites and stalagmites inside these limestone caves are sculpted by nothing but water and time!
How old is Byblos?
It is believed to have been first occupied between 8800 and 7000 BC and continuously inhabited since 5000 BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Does Lebanon have a wonder of the world?
Not only are there beautiful cities though, but also there is one of the seven natural wonders of the world in Lebanon.
What is cave calcite?
Cave calcite (also called cave popcorn or coralloids) is not actually calcite, but aragonite. This mineral forms within caves, mines and moist areas that are rich in limestone. Formations occur as stalactites and stalagmites, typically as botryoidal or feathery (‘floss ferri’) braches.
Is stalactite a living thing?
Living things usually grow during their life cycle. Note that the word “grow” refers also to non-living things which can get larger. Examples are crystals, stalactites, and stalagmites. Many living things move on their own although some, like plants, do not.