The Roman Empire

Category: Historical

Town: Btedhi

Coordinates: Location

The Roman Empire was known for its impressive network of roads. One of these roads was the Via Appia, which ran from Rome to Brindisi in southern Italy. However, the Via Appia also extended beyond Italy into other parts of the empire, including Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, which ran from Heliopolis (modern-day Baalbeck) passing by Deir El Ahmar and Btedhi. It continued to Akoura to end in Jbeil.

The Via Appia in the Bekaa Valley was not just a transportation route; it was also a symbol of Roman influence in the region. The road enabled the movement of troops and goods throughout the area, which helped the Romans maintain control. The road also facilitated trade between the cities of the Bekaa Valley and the rest of the Roman Empire, helping to stimulate economic growth in the region.

Today, the Via Appia in the Bekaa Valley is still visible in Btedhi. Although the road has not been fully preserved, many sections are still intact.