In the aftermath of the 1975-1990 Lebanese war, significant areas of Beirut lay in ruins. Today, in a changing world of new opportunities, the Lebanese capital has much ground to make up to regain its former status as a leading metropolitan center in the Middle East. But the signs of the city's rebirth are becoming more apparent each day. One cannot fail to be impressed by the speed with which the city has launched the reconstruction and is reconnecting with the current age.

This book tells the story of the plan to renew Beirut's 180 hectare Central District - the heart of the capital, site of ancient settlements and that part of the city most devastated by the long conflict. Its reconstruction, led by the private sector, is probably the most ambitious urban regeneration project in implementation at the turn of the millennium.

By the year 2000, and completion of the first phase of renewal, new infrastructure, landscaping and restored archeological sites will be in place throughout the traditional city center; and the sea defenses, harbor works, decontamination and site preparation will have been carried out on the new reclamation area. Almost 300 retained and heritage buildings will have been restored and some 615,000 square meters of new construction completed.