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Go from Chtaura to Ablah via Zahle,
taking the left fork at Ablah. About 2 km from Ablah a blue sign
marks the left turn to the village of Niha.
The temples are visible as soon as you enter the village, making
it easy to wind your way through to the site, which is protected
by a fenced enclosure.
The larger temple, approached by a monumental staircase, is imposing
in its size and beauty. Restoration work by the General Directorate
of Antiquities gives an idea of its original appearance, although
not al elements are in their original places. To the left of the
first flight of stairs is a well preserved relief carving of a
priest making an offering. A cornice around the top is worth examining.
The much smaller temple nearby, dedicated to the Syro-Phoenician
god Hadaranes, is interesting for its delicately carved doorway
which stands nearly complete.
Upper Temples
Leaving the village of Niha with the lower temples behind on your
left, take the uppermost road leading into the mountains to the
west. The steep rural roadway, usually traveled by foot, takes
you up 300 meters to Husn Niha, or the "fortress of Niha".
Here you will find two partially preserved Roman temples. Niha
is illuminated at night thanks to arrangements by the Ministry
of Tourism.
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