Under the warm Mediterranean sun, the Port of Beirut stands as a silent witness to the intersection of history and modernity. This Lebanese commercial port serves not only as the country's primary maritime hub but also as a vital commercial bridge connecting East and West. But how did Beirut Port emerge as such a crucial artery in this region?
Port Overview
The Port of Beirut, with its international code LBBEY, is strategically located in the heart of Beirut Governorate along Lebanon's Mediterranean coast. Renowned for its prime geographical position and deep-water berths, the port lies 48 nautical miles north of Tripoli and 97 nautical miles northwest of Latakia Port.
Enclosed by a distinctive peninsula and extending breakwaters, the port features three main basins that provide shelter from waves, ensuring safe navigation and berthing. The first basin, known as the Old Port, contains three berths with depths ranging from 3 to 8 meters, primarily serving vessels up to 1,000 tons. Its No. 1 breakwater extends 183 meters with a depth of 11 meters, specifically serving Berth No. 4.
The second basin offers deeper berthing conditions. Its western quay features Berth No. 5 for large passenger ships, while other berths handle general cargo operations. This area maintains depths between 8 and 10.5 meters with a total quay length of 810 meters. Meanwhile, the No. 2 breakwater stretches 200 meters with depths exceeding 13 meters, featuring a dedicated grain berth supported by several grain silos with a combined capacity of 105,000 tons.
The third basin boasts a uniform depth of 13 meters, suitable for ocean-going cargo vessels. It includes specialized berths for container ships and roll-on/roll-off vessels, featuring two container terminals and one Ro-Ro berth that ensure the port's diversified service capabilities.
Historical Development
The Lebanese Civil War that began in the 1980s severely disrupted operations at Beirut Port. Despite continuous conflict, local communities and government authorities worked tirelessly to repair port infrastructure and revive shipping activities, gradually restoring its vitality. Today, the port not only carries Lebanon's economic lifeline but also embodies hopes for future peace and prosperity.
With its rich history, cultural significance, and development potential, Beirut Port has once again captured the attention of domestic and international traders. Beyond its commercial functions, this resilient port has become an important cultural and tourism destination, attracting explorers eager to discover its stories.
