Raouché: The Inspirational Rock
Standing in front of this natural wonder rising from the sea, I could not understand why lost souls would come there to contemplate or commit suicide. Beirut’s natural wonder left me with nothing but boundless inspiration.
The Raouché is to Beirut what the Cedar is to Lebanon, a timeless symbol of the city and its most famous landmark. Also known as Pigeons’ Rock, its Arabic name translates to rock and is believed to be a derivative of the French word rocher.
Most visitors encounter it on a leisurely stroll along the Corniche or a jog along the scenic promenade that hugs the Mediterranean coast. With its seaside cafés, restaurants and hotels, the area is a magnet for locals and tourists alike. While crowds take their turn to pose for the obligatory photograph, some well-informed local proudly recounts that it is a place where archaeological digs have revealed some of the oldest evidence of human communities in Beirut.
Inspired by natural beauty rising from the sparking Mediterranean sea, I would have loved to spend the late afternoon sitting at an outdoor café by the cliff-side and write, sipping a cold drink, entranced by the golden orb sinking into the calm waters.
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Wow, Stunning! We have to go there. Now there is another country to add to the list. Beirut wasn’t on it before. Thanks for the inspiration.
We saw the Corniche at Sunset in the traditional way – didn’t quite make it up as far as the Pigeo rocks though, but there was a real warmth in the air of families and couples out enjoying the evening air.
http://www.heatheronhertravels.com/sunset-on-the-corniche-in-beirut/
Nothing like the breeze off the Mediterranean.
Dave and Deb: I highly recommend it. There is so much to see all over the country. Then there is the food!
Heather: Now I’m really envious! :) Your sunset photos are stunning and capture the feel of the place at that time of the day.
Anil: Agree. Nothing is like it. No matter where you stand along the Med.