Syria, the land of Lebanon

A travel writer and former resident offers a vivid, observant tour of Syria and Lebanon, blending personal reminiscence with descriptive reportage. He sketches coastal approaches and the snow-capped Lebanon range, cedar forests, mountain villages, and the fertile plains; moves inland to Beirut, Damascus, and other urban centers; examines classical and biblical antiquities such as Baalbek, Palmyra, and Hama; and describes desert landscapes, caravan routes, and local customs. Richly illustrated with photographs and maps, the account interweaves natural scenery, historical background, and contemporary social and religious life to present a panoramic view of the region's topography and heritage.