Chir el Joube

Overview

Chir el Joube is a significant geological site in the village of Azour — about 22 km from Sidon and 63 km south of Beirut, with the village itself at 830 m. Its dramatic cliff has been sculpted by the tectonic movement of the Roum Fault, part of the Dead Sea Fault System in Lebanon, within the southern structural formations of Mount Lebanon.

The site is marked by notable seismic activity, with a recurrence interval of 40–50 years, and by distinctive geomorphology. Visitors can observe intricate tectonic structures — two mountain chains and a central syncline — that reflect the region’s compression dynamics and offer insight into the processes shaping Lebanon.

Biodiversity

Flora. The site holds a remarkable array of endemic species of the East Mediterranean region, including Carlina curetum subsp. orientalis, Cytisus syriacus, Helichrysum sanguineum, Micromeria graeca subsp. laxiflora, Orchis sancta, Phleum montanum, Quercus calliprinos, Quercus infectoria, Rhamnus punctata, and Teucrium divaricatum subsp. villosum. Among them, Cytisus syriacus and Trifolium xerocephalum face the threat of endangerment.

Fauna. The wildcat plays a key ecological role as a predator, regulating rodents, reptiles, amphibians, and insects; its vulnerability — including interbreeding with feral cats, a threat to its genetic distinctiveness — calls for careful assessment. The Rock Hyrax, confined to rocky cliffs, is a symbolic, diurnal species easily spotted by visitors. The hedgehog helps control insect populations. The area’s geology also draws at least eight species of bats.

Why it matters

The chosen flora and fauna reflect the region’s unique ecology and geology. Endemics such as Carlina curetum and Quercus calliprinos mark the site as a biodiversity hotspot, while endangered species like Cytisus syriacus underline the urgency of conservation. The wildcat was included both for its ecological role and because it faces real threats, drawing attention to pressing conservation issues. The Rock Hyrax was chosen for its ecological role and symbolic significance, and species drawn by the geological features — such as bats — illustrate the site’s potential as a geosite.

What we are doing

• Develop audio guides and informative signage along the trail so the geological features are accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
• Offer field trips and workshops on Azour’s geology and its connections to local ecology and paleontology.
• Introduce activities such as rock climbing to attract adventure enthusiasts.
• Encourage ecotourism visits for Rock Hyrax sightseeing, highlighting its ecological significance.