Places

THE ROMAN NYMPHAEUM

The visible structure today is the remains of a Roman nymphaeum (public fountain). The nymphaeum was once decorated with fountains and niches filled with statues, most notably that of the Goddess Hygeia, on display at the National Museum of Beirut. The roads leading into the city from the north converged in the area in front of the nymphaeum. The snake around Hygeia’s shoulders symbolizes the healing virtues with which the goddess of health was endowed.