Jeita Grotto

A system of two interconnected limestone caves in the Nahr al-Kalb valley north of Beirut, extending nearly nine kilometres and containing some of the largest known stalactites in the world. The lower cave is accessible by boat along an underground river, while the upper cave is traversed on foot via walkways that bring visitors close to massive stalactite and stalagmite formations. The scale of some individual formations — the world's largest known stalactite at over eight metres — is difficult to appreciate from photographs. The site has been a recognized natural landmark since the 19th century when it was documented by British explorers.