ZAHLAH

also spelled Zahl, town, central Lebanon. It lies on the eastern slopes of the Lebanon Mountains, at an elevation of 3,150 feet (960 m) above sea level. An agricultural market centre for the broad al-Biqa' Valley, it is also a popular summer resort on the BeirutDamascus railroad. Zahlah is noted for its fruits, vineyards, and arrack (a type of alcoholic beverage). Pop. (1985 est.) 200,000.