The architectural evolution of the ancient Lebanese churches in Koura, Batroun and Byblos, from the 8th Century to the 13th Century

Abstract

I think this work is intriguing for a wide circle of readers interested in the history of ancient Lebanese churches. Monumental historical temples are the symbol of cultural identity showing the spiritual value of their old period and reflecting the social, cultural and economic endurance of the past. They are the main part of the architectural heritage that signalizes the continuity of history and the important link between our time and history that helps to understand the development of the architectural features in time and space. Like in many countries, ancient churches need to be identified, classified and then assessed; for this reason, in this research, I will offer an overall picture of the original ecclesiastical parts, which is based on the latest architectural and documental data. The study of these structures is important because it helps to identify the structural forms, the disaster preparedness and the potential hazards. The original damaged and undamaged parts of these churches should be examined in order to achieve proper results, considering the first step to accomplish this, is to recognize them in their original status, so that the applied intervention could be implemented respecting these results. Documentation, protection and conservation of historic monuments are the most important procedures of the cultural heritage preservation, therefore large inventory of these temples should be well documented before starting to detailed analyses and restoration projects.