Chtaura

Chtaura is a town in the Beqaa Valley of eastern Lebanon. It lies along the Beirut–Damascus highway and is situated to the east of Beirut, functioning as a regional transportation and commercial hub for the Beqaa. The surrounding landscape is primarily agricultural, with orchards and vineyards contributing to the local economy. Chtaura supports farming communities in the area through markets, services, and small-scale processing facilities. Crops typically grown in the region include grapes, apples, and other fruits, as well as cereals.

The population is mixed, reflecting the broader diversity of the Beqaa Valley, and residents engage in farming, trade, and light industry. The town has religious buildings, schools, and basic health and public services to serve both locals and nearby villages. A weekly market draws farmers from the surrounding countryside to sell produce and goods.

Chtaura is well connected by road, linking Beirut with eastern Lebanon and borders with neighboring countries. Public buses and taxis provide access to Zahle, Baalbek, and other towns, supporting commerce and travel. The town’s location on major road corridors has historically made it a waypoint for travelers and traders passing through the valley.

Historically, the Beqaa Valley has served as a crossroads of civilizations, and Chtaura has grown as a settlement that benefits from its strategic position along trade routes and later modern highways.