Lebanon, officially the Lebanese Republic or the Republic of Lebanon, is located between Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south, with Cyprus to its west across the Mediterranean Sea.
Its rich history and cultural identity of religious diversity is greatly influenced by the country’s location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Basin and the Arabian hinterland. Lebanon has roughly six million inhabitants and is one of the smallest countries in the world with an area of 10,452 square kilometres (4,036 sq mi).
The official language of the state is Arabic, and the Lebanese dialect of Arabic and Modern Standard Arabic is used throughout the country. French is also formally recognized.
Lebanon’s capitol is Beirut, the currency is Lebanese pound, and the time zone is Eastern European Time (GMT +3).