Ruins at Baalbek - 10 piastre
The ancient archaeological complex of Baalbek (بعلبك), located in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley, contains some of the best-preserved and most monumental Roman temple structures in the world. Known in antiquity as Heliopolis, the site features the towering Temple of Bacchus—depicted in detail on the stamp—alongside the massive stone columns of the Temple of Jupiter. Baalbek stands as a paramount symbol of Lebanon's deep historical heritage, international tourism appeal, and classical antiquity.
To showcase this iconic landmark while serving international post, the Republic of Lebanon (الجمهورية اللبنانية) issued this 5 piastre airmail stamp (البريد الجوي) as part of its mid-20th-century definitive series. Designed by V. Pliiss and printed in Beirut by Imp. J. Saikali, the stamp ingeniously features a modern commercial airliner flying above the ancient temple ruins—symbolizing the bridge between Lebanon's historic ancient legacy and its post-war role as a modern international aviation hub.