Aley

Aley is a city in Lebanon, serving as the capital of the Aley District in Mount Lebanon Governorate. It is located roughly 12 kilometers east of Beirut and sits in the Lebanon Mountains at an elevation of about 700 to 900 meters above sea level. The town is part of the greater Beirut metropolitan area and is known for a milder climate in summer, which has historically made it a popular retreat.

Historically, Aley developed as a summer resort for residents of Beirut during the Ottoman period and grew through the 19th and 20th centuries. Its economy today centers on commerce and services, with agriculture and seasonal tourism contributing as well. The population is diverse, reflecting the multi-religious composition common in Mount Lebanon, including communities of Muslims and Christians.

Transportation in Aley is supported by road connections to Beirut and other parts of Lebanon. The town historically had a stop on the Beirut–Damascus railway, a line that served the area in earlier decades. In contemporary terms, Aley remains integrated into the regional road network that links central Beirut with eastern towns and villages.

Environment and culture in and around Aley are shaped by the surrounding hills and climate, with public squares, religious sites, and local markets serving residents and visitors. The Aley area includes several municipalities and rural communities that form a broader highland region west of the Beqaa, contributing to the district’s character and economy.