Beirut

A former trade city, Beirut is by far the most important urban center in Lebanon. Its proximity to the Lebanon Mountain Range and the Mediterranean Sea make it advantageously located. The service industry and banking are vital aspects of the economy. Following the end of the civil war in 1990, this multi-confessional city tried to rebuild itself, but has been hampered by inconsistency in the planning and building process, with disregard toward precious old neighbourhoods and buildings.