Beirut

**Lebanon, Beirut ** Lebanon has been referred to as the Switzerland of the Middle East because of its many firms and universities, banks and is vital, central commerce center for many businesses.Beirut conveys a sense of life and energy that is immediately apparent. Beirut geographical position is a great promontory jutting into the blue sea with dramatic mountains rising behind it. Beirut stands on the site of a very ancient settlement going back at least 5,000 years. Its name appeared in cuneiform inscriptions as early as the 14th century B.C. In the first century B.C., Berytus, as it was then called, became a Roman Colony and under Roman rule was the seat of a famous Law school which continued into the Byzantine era. With a population of 2 million, Beirut visitors will find this seaport town beguiling and charming, especially with the recent reconstruction projects that continue throughout the city.