Beirut with its numerous places of worship of all faiths, is the epitome of tolerance and mutual respect in a multi-community life dominated by a spirit of freedom. Thus the five major churches (to name a few), built in the heart of the capital, belonging to different Christian communities, demonstrate with clarity and eloquence of this fraternal spirit that animates the spiritual life of everyone in Lebanon.

The Cathedral Saint-Elijah – Downtown Beirut
In 1849, Monsignor Agabios Riachy, Metropolitan of Beirut, finished the building of the Saint Elias Cathedral. Once completed, this building was noted for the harmony of its Byzantine architecture and its beautiful oriental decorations. The arches, introduced at that time, gave him the slenderness. His heavenly oculi made her shine all its glory. Its interior decoration and ornamentation made her sumptuous. Become the center of interest of the faithful, it revived their hopes, consolidating their identity and gave breath to flourish.

In 1934, the Cathedral was threatened with demolition to allow the passage of a boulevard connecting the Arch of Triumph to the Place of Martyrs. Expropriation never went to completion.

The Cathedral was recovered by the Eparchy in 1994 after being damaged by the impact of Lebanese strife. Currently, she is close to resume its ancient beauty, its mystery, its spiritual services, its fraternal ecumenical presence and contribution to the rebirth of Lebanon. His son believed in its mission, as well as its future and is determined to restore it, because it is the symbol of their distinctive presence in the heart of the capital.
Work began at the end of 2003 and was completed in May 2006.

The Cathedral of Saint George Maronite – Downtown Beirut
Built in a decade, from 1884 to 1894 according to the plans of the Italian architect Giuseppe Maggiore, the Metropolitan Cathedral is a replica of the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, mainly in its facade, its architectural design form Cross and coffered ceiling. It was consecrated by Bishop Youssef Debs in 1894 and restored for the first time in 1953 with significant changes (cut transept and side arcades added). She hosted the deeds of our national life before knowing the turmoil years sombres1975-1990.En 1997 at the request of Bishop Boulos Matar Maronite Archbishop of Beirut, and in strict compliance with the Renaissance style of the period, Cathedral returns to its original shape cross: transept restored in its entirety with recovery windows. The central nave has a coffered ceiling in gilt double frame, wood, coated with gold on beige background. The walls are decorated with a coating of stucco and marble. As the altar is surmounted by a canopy period style with twisted columns. Behind the altar at the back of the choir, is installed”” cathedra, the chair of the Pope used during his visit to Lebanon. Consecrated after restoration by Cardinal Sfeir 24 April 2000 to 17 hours in the presence of the Patriarchs of the East and the papal legate Cardinal Lustiger, archbishop of Paris. Now renovated, it will remain at the heart of the city the seat of the Archbishop of Beirut.

Cathedral of St. George Greek Orthodox – Downtown Beirut
Built in 1767 on the ruins and structures of the Church of the Resurrection (first century) and nearby school Roman law, it is considered the most beautiful – if not the oldest – the cathedrals and churches of Beirut. The current building dates back to the 17th century (according to an Ottoman document found in the cathedral dating from 1808 h.) When this building was the only church in the city. It was known as the “Convent of St. George” since it regrouped different ecclesiastical centers: the seat of the Metropolitan of Beirut, the seat of the monks, the center of the Advisory Council (Al Melli), a school, a library, hospitals and printing (first printing Arabic in Beirut). In 1715, at the time of the late Metropolitan Neophitos, the church was enlarged and renovated at random. In 1759, it was damaged by an earthquake, which led to a fundraiser to enlarge and restore. The work lasted three years de1764 to 1767: in this year, the roof of the church collapsed on the believers who celebrated Mass and 90 men lost their lives. A new restoration of the church was begun in 1772 in the time of the late Metropolitan Yoakim, including three altars: the altar of St. George in the center, the altar of St. Nicolas on the right and left altar of St. Elijah. In 1783, the church was embellished by a wooden iconostasis of nuts and decorated with gilt icons mostly dating from the 18th century. The church once again experienced in 1904 an extension of the time of the late Metropolitan Gerasimos Mesarra: its walls and roof were decorated with frescoes, and the place was surrounded by a wall.

The 1975-1990 war did not spare the cathedral most of its icons and its furnishings were looted, and the iconostasis and frescoes even suffered terribly because of climatic effects because its roof was shaken. On 16 October 1995, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Beirut Elias Aoude decided to restore the cathedral. The work was done, the debris removed and the roof étançonné. Studies on the state of the building were started and archaeological excavations revealed the remains of three superposed churches the oldest is probably the Church of the Resurrection destroyed by the earthquake that shook violently 551 Beirut. On top of this church are the remains of a church dating from the Middle Ages to overcome those of another 18th century church as well as the excavations uncovered the remains of a cemetery, mosaics and many utensils of church. The excavations will be transformed into an underground museum, and restoration work has been divided between:
1 – the iconostasis: several parts were found and restored and refurbished parts were looted and attached to the old.
2 – The floor was restored and paved with mosaics, including a copy of the mosaic found under the cathedral.
3 – The frescoes were refurbished by a group of Russian artists who restored what was almost intact. He removed the damaged parts and too stuck on paintings that are on display in the living room of the church. A group of Greek artists worked to paint the remaining frescoes.

The Cathedral of Saints Gregory and Elian – Downtown Beirut
This church was when it was built in 1860, the first Catholic church in Lebanon for Armenians. It was destroyed in 1901 in order to expand so that it can accommodate a large number of devotees. In 1950 it suffered the same fate of destruction to build its location the Cathedral of St. Elian and Gregory Cardinale Agajajian time.

St. Louis Capuchin Church – Downtown Beirut
Built in 1864, near the Grand Serail, newly restored bell tower stands in the middle with sting buildings downtown also given to new. Large church with colorful roses, it meets the needs of the community of the Latin rite.

The Evangelical Church – Downtown Beirut
Built in 1867, three years after those of the Capuchins, is the work of Anglo-American missionaries and meets the needs of the Protestant community. In Gothic and Oriental architecture with its roof of red brick, the church was completely destroyed in 1976 and rebuilt with the same stone in 1998.

Church of Saint Maron – Downtown Beirut
A Roman-style church built in 1875. It is known for its arcades, apses and cut stones. The arches resemble prostyls temples with their marble columns that give it illuminating splendor. Its beauty is reflected even by its stained glass windows depicting saints and white marble altar surmounted by a painting of Saint Maron and painted by El Daoud Corm (Saint Maron is celebrated on February 9, official holiday in Lebanon).

Saint Elias Maronite Church – Downtown Beirut
The current church building dates back to 1907 and reflects more of an architectural style where the Italian architect had amalgamated yellow stones (used in the majority of Beirut buildings) the great Roman carved columns. The church was restored in 2002 and the windows were covered with colorful windows of the French artist Jacques Guiton who added a touch of modernity (renewed) in the old building.

Church of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox – Ras Beirut
It is located between the street “Al Makhoul” and “Bliss” (opposite the American University). Built in 1860 by the faithful of the Orthodox rite time Erosios fire, the church has a five-storey school where 1,300 students of all religions and rites pursue their academic studies. Within the walls of the church are the same cemeteries dating from the time of the construction of the church.

Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox – Achrafieh
It dates from the early 19th century. It was first located in the center of the old Beirut (southeast of St. George’s Church of the Maronites to the Turkish Hammam). At the beginning of the second decade of the 20th century, the government expropriated the land and demolished the church to expand the road Maarad.
The present church was officially opened in 1927 and is one of the largest Orthodox churches of old Beirut. The entrance is marked by a large ornate iron gate topped by a stone parapet also decorated and surrounded to the west by two cupolas shaped rosettes containing four bells. One of the bells from the old church she was brought from Russia and bears the following inscription in Russian: “Russia in the casting workshop Semghine Dimitri.” This inscription is next to an icon of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus in her arms. The bell weighs about 160 kg and was made in 1826. The iconostasis is delicately carved white marble and decorated with drawings and works in colored marble and seashells, thus constituting a true artistic masterpiece. Crowned by an icon of Christ, the bishop’s throne (to the right of the church) stands on two lions kneeling Carrera marble. This church is one of the few churches that still retain an ancient marble baptismal font decorated with carvings made by hand. It contains Russian icons of beauty and perfection exquisite 19th century and mounted on existing iconostasis. There are also old robes worn by priests, utensils, embroidery, a tabernacle dating from the second half of the 19th century, icons painted by the pioneering artist Habib Srour and a rare icon (probably dating back to the 19th century) painted on a special fabric and includes a series of adjacent icons describing the saving work of God from the Creation to the Second Coming and the Last Judgment.

St. Catherine Church in the convent and school Zahrat Al-Ihsan – Achrafieh
In 1880, mother Mariam (Labibé) Gehchan founded an orphanage, a school and a monastic order under the supervision of the “Zahrat Al-Ihsan ‘Association and under the patronage of St. Catherine venerable martyr and full of wisdom. The St. Catherine’s Church with its magnificent iconostasis (hand painted by Ibrahim Abdo Jabbour) was consecrated in 1950. The church contains a large icon of the Virgin Mary (“Our Lady of Vladimir”) painted by a Russian and ancient Russian icon artist and other ancient and modern icons that adorn the walls.

Church of Saint Nicolas – Achrafieh
It dates from 1976 and gave his name to his entourage: Rue Saint Nicolas, Saint Nicolas district whose inhabitants have adopted as their patron saint. The church was destroyed during the war. On 14 April 1991, the Metropolitan of Beirut and its surroundings Archbishop Elias Aoude placed the foundation stone of the new building in the new complex Saint Nicolas which included two churches: one on the ground floor is a replica of the old church while the other is larger and characterized by a marble iconostasis and beautiful Byzantine icons.

Church of St. Dimitri – Achrafieh
Oriental architectural style, it was built in the 19th century and dedicated to Saint Dimitri (where the region was well known by Mar Mitr). The adjoining cemetery is one of the oldest in the capital: it consists of few that Orthodox Beirut as appropriate final resting artistic pieces.

Monastery of St. Elijah Btina – UNESCO Sector
The monastery dates from before the nineteenth century, and its buildings currently include the Saint Elie Btina school, high school Greek Orthodox. The monastery church was a sanctuary in a cave where small openings were installed in the roof for ventilation. The altars of the present church are placed in cavities cut into the rock. This sanctuary was enlarged into a church which currently holds the cut in the rock section. A wooden iconostasis rises and is decorated with ancient Russian icons. The church also contains an old miraculous icon of Saint Elie venerated by the faithful.

Greek Orthodox Diocese – Rue Sursock – Achrafieh
It is the seat of the Metropolitan of Beirut and its surroundings and the seat of the Bishopric of Beirut (created by Quartz, one of the 72 disciples of Christ in the first century AD). The seat was previously located in St. George’s Cathedral (Place de l’Etoile), but the bishop Erothaos built in 1860 the lower west wing of the existing building (Achrafieh – Street of the diocese or the Sursock Street, the one of the most beautiful streets of the capital with its ancient castles and beautiful green gardens). Metropolitan Elias Aoude built in one of the gardens of the palace a church dedicated to St. Anthony the Great and the Visionary Porphyrios.

Convent of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple – Sioufi – Achrafieh
It was built in the early 20th century by Catherine Karkabi in an orchard of olive and fig trees, away from the noise, movement and houses. The church is distinguished by its wooden iconostasis carved by hand (1906) and its silver-coated icons (dating from the same period).

Basilica of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Vincentian Fathers – Achrafieh
This is the first church in Lebanon to which the Holy See granted the status of basilica. Dedicated November 27, 1952 at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in the presence of the Apostolic Nuncio, it was built by the Vincentian Fathers on a hill overlooking Beirut Achrafieh. Since its construction, the church has found a calling to serve, which has become a center of piety, reconciliation and spiritual influence in Beirut and all of Lebanon. A “Memorandum of spiritual brotherhood” was signed between it and the Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes in France on 19 November 2005, first making it an oasis of prayer, meditation and peace in the heart of the capital.

Jbeil Caza
1- The Murals of the Church of Bahdidat
Bahdidat, a small village located at 550m above sea level north of Byblos. Here an old Maronite chapel rectangular, dedicated to St. Theodore, contains beautiful murals. The apse is covered over the entire height of the wall which told the story of salvation in two stages according to the Old and New Testament. The relative part to the Old Testament occupies the bow hanger, while the lower arch and apse depict scenes from the New Testament.

2- The Church of Saint Simeon-Mar Simaan
To the east of Byblos, on a small hill, you can see an old chapel dedicated to St. Simeon and which is designated in the region Mar Semaan. At the center of this chapel, built by the Crusaders, stands a huge trunk marble column, which obviously does not come from an ordinary Roman temple. This column is probably a Stylite who lived there.
In fact the square chapel, built by the Crusaders and surmounted by a dome more supported by the sides, is intended to highlight the column of the Stylite.

3- The Chapel Saydet Elige -Mayfouk
Between blue and green landscape sun-drenched hills just a few of Byblos, the village is home to an old church Mayfouk known Saydet Elige, name formerly given to the same locality, On simple architecture with its old stones arranged a little rough, his doors arches and old shuttered windows, this church was restored in 1747 seems to date from the 13th century. An inscription in Syriac is engraved on one of its walls, and it is said she was also, in time, the seat of the Maronite patriarchs.

4- The Chapel of Mar Semaan – Abaydât
Around Jbeil, a crossroad of Abaydât one crosses, carved into the rock, between bushes and rubble overgrown with weeds, the rock chapel Mar Semaan commonly known as the Cave of Saint Simeon. Rough stone facade and reduced to their simplest expression openings remain poorly murals dating from the 12th century to decorate and demonstrate a marked sacred art of great piety. There are, by the representation of Christ Pantocrator seated on his throne between the Virgin and Saint Jean Baptiste and two seraphim with wings. An inscription in Syriac calligraphy enhances all widely consumed by erosion.

5- The Cathedral Saint-John Marc – Byblos
Not far from the sea, protected by an oasis of greenery and a few old houses, close to the souk of Byblos, stands the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist commonly known today by Saint Jean Marc. The majority of studies on this cathedral suggests that the construction of the church began in the year 1115, on the baptistery, he could go back to the late 12th or early 13th century. The part of the building currently used sacristy is probably more recent (late 18th century). Built therefore initially at the time of the Crusaders, it was given in the 18th century the monks of the Lebanese Maronite Order by Emir Youssef Chehab. Composed mainly of three naves and three apses, the Romanesque church reflect local and Byzantine architecture.

Repeatedly achieving various damage to the upheavals of nature and acts of war, however, she kept a neat square with its covered in jagged stone arches and domes appearance, ornate tower columns, the large paved courtyard and wrought iron fence dating from 1989.

6- The Monastery of Mar Maroun Annaya:
Hermitage and Burial of Saint Charbel
In the peaceful green of Annaya rests the remains of the saint Lebanese Mar Charbel. Born May 8, 1828 at Bqa’aqafra, one of the highest villages in the Cedars region, Mar Charbel is now an object of worship and life a supreme example of hard work and absolute devotion to God. Moreover, from an early age he was nicknamed “the holy” because of his great piety. In 1875, he retired to the hermitage overlooking the valley Ehmej was later transformed into a fervent pilgrimage, one of the busiest in the country. He lived there in the greatest austerity, 23 years until his death December 24, 1898 while celebrating Christmas mass at the age of 70. Beatified in 1965, he was canonized in October 1977.
The monastery of Mar Maroun Annaya simple, squat building, with its statue of Saint Charbel arm raised to the sky in the outdoor courtyard with a wrought iron fence, a small church constantly illuminated by the prayers and wishes of believers, its small museum objects with a total frugality that belonged to Saint, all contribute to a unique atmosphere that the faithful find themselves in the tranquility of a bathed by the grace of God landscape.

7- Convent of St. Elie – Lehfed
Lehfed is a village located 62 km from Beirut at an altitude of 1000 m. it contains an archaeological Maronite monastery dedicated to St. Elias. This monastery was the seat of the Patriarch John VI Lehfed between 1251 and 1254.

8- Churches of Aqoura
The village Aqoura contains nearly 44 churches, convents and monasteries, the most important are: St. George’s Church, Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, St. Jacob’s Church and Church of St. Simon. Most of these monuments date from the Middle Ages.

9- Convent Saints Sarkis and Bakhos – Qartaba
The convent dates back to 1536 when the children of Sheikh Gerges have migrated to Aqoura Qartaba, taking with them an image of the holy martyrs Sarkis and Bakhos and building a church that was dedicated to them in cooperation with the inhabitants of this village. However it was destroyed by fire and rebuilt in 1711. in 1815, the inhabitants of Qarataba donated – through an act – the church and its dependencies as “pious legacies and eternal prison” in favor of the Lebanese Order so that it build an adjacent school. Thus the Order he founded a school and bought the neighboring land to expand the building, and the convent was enlarged it in 1823. The monks continued to serve the people of Qartaba accordance with their monastic values, the most famous being P. Daniel Al-Aalam Al-Hadathi (1884) and P. Al-Youssef Abi Ghosn Jbeily (1934), both of whom died in the odor of piety and virtue.

10- Mar Gerges “Blue” and Notre Dame Yanouh
A 80 klm Beyrotuh and at an altitude of 110 m between two mountain villages and Qartaba Aqoura is Yanouh (in Aramaic oasis of peace and tranquility). This ancient archaeological village has seen spent on his land several civilizations (Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Maronite). There remains today a temple on the edge of the highway turned into two churches: Notre Dame and Saint George “Blue.”

1) Church of Saint George “Blue”
It dates from the Byzantine era and was so named due to its bluish color stones. It contains cross two horns and four arms (the oldest and most widespread in northern Syria formed during the early Christian era) in reference to the doctrine of the dual nature of Christ (divine and human), or two virtues (the Word or the Holy Spirit), or the two powers (the archangel Michael and Gabriel that accompany the souls of the dead).

2) Our Lady of Yanouh

The Maronite patriarchs (between the 10th and 13th centuries, before and under the Crusaders) took the seat Yanouh temples and used the stones to build a church (with the same dimensions as the church Saint Georges “Blue”) dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This church has input, a semi-circular arc and porticoes and is decorated with crosses and engravings.

Cazas of Keserwan and Metn
1- Bkirke, residence of the Maronite Patriarch
On a hill that overlooks the Bay of Jounieh, which is surrounded by pine trees, stands the imposing structure of the Maronite patriarchy which has been there since 1830.
At the beginning it was a simple monastery built in 1703.
It was enlarged in 1893. On the entrance there is a triple inscription in Syriac, Latin and Arabic. “The glory of Lebanon is given to him” from Isaiah 2:35. The building is white in color; the roof is covered with red bricks; the sound of the bell is echoed in the surrounding valleys; the windows are blue with arches; the stair is majestic; the outside court in wide. Inside, there is spacious saloon which contains a library rich with valuable manuscripts. There is a solemn silence which makes the Maronite patriarchy, a crown on the head of the Bay.

2- The Cathedral of our Lady of Lebanon – Harissa
On a hill that reverently overlooks the Bay of Jounieh and contemplates Beirut and the vast horizon stands the sanctuary of our Lady of Lebanon. It’s a place that shines with devotion to Saint Mary. Believers constructed this place to worship the Virgin Mother, our Lady of Lebanon. The statue of Saint Mary stands at the top of the structure. It is a white statue that touches the blue sky and is surrounded by roaming clouds. It has been here since 1908, resting on a cement foundation. The statue is reached by means of a spiral flight of stairs. Inside there is a small church where to thousands of believers come to pray and to hold marriage ceremonies.
The number of people is doubled in May, the month dedicated to Virgin Mary. Beside the ancient sanctuary, there is a modern, cathedral in which Pope John Paul II celebrated mass on his visit to Lebanon (Saturday May 10, 1997).

3- Cathedral of Saint Paul – Harissa
It is one of a number of places of worship found in Harissa. Near the sanctuary of our Lady of Lebanon there is the Monastery of the Catholic Missionaries of Saint Paul. (They founded their congregation in 1903).
Inside the monastery there is a church that has beauty of architecture. It roof has a semi-cupola. Inside the church there is mosaic of the Byzantine style on a golden background that represents the image of the Christ, the Apostles, Saint Mary carrying Jesus the Infant, fathers of the church and episodes from the Old and New Testaments.

4- Monastery of our Lady of Deliverance – el-cherfeh, Daroun , Harissa
In 1754, the sheikhs sold a piece of land to the priest Youssef Maroun el-Traboulsi provided that he builds a school to teach the principles of the Syriac and Arabic languages and the basics of the religion: the priest built the Monastery of our Lady of Deliverance in 1757 upon the terrace of the town of Daroun. That is why it is called the Monastery of the Terrace”.
In 1783, the patriarch of the Syriac catholics, Ignatios Mikhail Gerweh el-Halabi, arrived to Lebanon, escaping his persecutors in Bagdad.
He took refuge in this monastery. Later on, he bought it and named it the Monastery of the Chair.
The monastery began to enlarge. A clerical school was inaugurated in it in 1964. Today, it contains a library hosting manuscripts dating back to the Middle Ages and letters exchanged between the Superior fathers in the monastery and the Holy See, the patriarchs, the princes, the ambassadors and councils. It also contains around thirty thousand books related to religion, history, geography, liturgy in Arabic, Syriac, Turkish, Persian and Latin.
Some of them date back to the last two centuries.
The monastery lost around 18 manuscripts which were chosen by father Agustin Chiasca upon his visit in 1880. He took them to the Vatican library upon the approval of Patriarch Gerges Chalhat. Foreign orientalists and travelers visited the monastery in order to study and gain knowledge. They organized a training session for the bishops. They also supplied the library with material to preserve it from decay.

5- The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Padua (Khashbao) – Ghazir
This monastery lies upon the hill of “Khashbao” that overlooks the Bay of Jounieh. “Khashbao” is a Syriac word that means a house for invocation and prayer. The Lebanese Maronite Order constructed it in 1752. In 1820, the church was built and was dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. It is one of the most beautiful churches in the East.
It is 30m long, 15m wide and 19m high. The Lebanese Maronite Order restored it in 1977 with the aid of the General Directorate of Antiquities in Lebanon.
It was inhabited by the Armenian monks till 1890. Then the Capuchin monks came from France and stayed in it. They left it during the 2nd decade of the 20th century. It was deserted until 1985 when the Maronite Order renovated it adding a new aisle where it became an architectural piece of art.
In 1989 it became the property of the Superior General of the Lebanese Maronite Order.

In 1837, the Polish poet, Julius Souatski visited the place and stayed there for a few days where he wrote his poetic masterpiece “Anheli”. In 1946 the Polish community commemorated him with a marble plaque put on the entrance of the monastery.
In 2000, the committee of the Odessy placed another commemorative plaque on the entrance of the room where he lived in and organized a great poetic ceremony in the courtyard of the monastery.

6- The Monastery of our Saviour – Sarba
It dates back to 1884 and is constructed (according to the byzantine monastic architecture) over the ruins of the Phoenician castle of Sarba. In its foundation, there are huge stones (some of them are three or four meters similar to those used in the castle of Faqra). On the stones there are sculptures representing the sun, the head of a sacred calf and ancient inscriptions as well as a statue of Jupiter. Ernest Renan discovered them near the tomb of a princess and sent them to the Louvre Museum in Paris.
It is inhabited by the Halabite monks, and it houses a church decorated with mural paintings and icons for the Greek Catholics. It is one of their most beautiful monasteries.

7- Monastery of our Saviour (Trappist Order) – Dlebta
It was built in 1737 when the Lebanese Council issued a decision to separate the monks and nuns and build for each a monastery to live in. The monks lived there for 30 years, and then left it before completing its construction. During the 19th century it was used for different purposes before it became a religious court for the Maronite church. The Latin trappist Order (the contemplators) became responsible of the monastery. The monks renovated it and added various elements to the building, aisles to receive pilgrims and visitors as well as a sawmill and a furnace. The trappist Fathers are famous for producing wine and dairy as well as jam, olive oil, honey and other products.

8- The monastery and church of Christ the King – Zouk Mosbeh
In 1895, Brother Yaacoub (Jacob) Haddad (from the Latin Capacin Order) was passing in front of the rocks of Nahr el Kalb on his way to pronounce his monastic vows, where he saw the historical inscriptions on the rocks. He said, “Christ must have a record in this place, more important than the written and engraved remains”. Later, he bought from the Halabite monks of the monastery of Louizeh (called the Mariamites later) a piece of land (300 thousand m2) on the hill called “Ruins of the kings” facing the Monastery of Saint Joseph Al-Bourj (and belongs to the Lebanese Maronite Order). He built a church and inaugurated it on Sunday 23/10/1951.
Then he asked the Italian artist, Renato Betelia to make a statue which was elevated on the last Sunday of October 1952. Near the monastery there is a small cave which the workers discovered. Father Yaaqoub turned it into a sanctuary for Virgin Mary, Mother of God.

9- Deir el-Saydet (our Lady of Bzommar) – Bzommar
In the history of Armenia, the monasteries were usually the only refuge for its exiled people and a depository for its national heritage. The monastery of our Lady of Bzommar is the only Armenian monastery in the Arab world after the Monastery of Jerusalem. It is 30 km from Beirut and rises 930m alone sea level.
It is located in the midst of a green hill that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The structure is white in color and the roof is of red bricks. The halls are spacious with Gothic vaults. This makes the place ideal for prayer and study.
This monastery was a pagan temple. Its priests used to blow the horn once every year to call the villagers in order to gather, celebrate and hold ceremonies.
In 1749, patriarch Abraham Peter the first Aydzivian made it a seat for his patriarchy. The succeeding patriarchs went on enlarging the monastery. In the church of the monastery, there is an image of the miraculous Lady of Sorrows, attributed to either the artist Raphael Sanzio (1483-1521) or to Guerairo Barbieri (1591-1666). Our Lady of Bzommar is worshiped in Lebanon and in other places in the world and many miracles were attributed to her.
In the monastery there are relics from the Holy Land of Armenia (the knuble of Saint Gregory and other sacerdotal objects). There are also Armenian manuscripts embellished with rare miniatures and a library rich in oriental and occidental volumes covering different fields of human knowledge, archives that could shed much light on certain aspects of the history of the Middle East in general and Lebanon in particular.

10- Monastry of Saint John Al-Sabegh – Khenshara- Matn
It carries different nominations: The monastery of el-Shoeir because it is located near the village el-Shoueir; the Monastery of Saint John el-Tabchi it is near the village Tabchi; the monastery of Saint John Al-Sayegh after the family name of Father John who served it; the Monastery of Saint John Al-Sabegh (referring to Saint John the Baptist). Its construction was completed in 1650. It lies in a calm oasis of rocks on an inclination of a mountain between the towns of Btighrine and Shoueir.
It houses three churches. Two of them have iconostasis. The third lies in an arched cave. It is a distinctive mark among the monasteries of the region for it has been the cradle of the Choueirite Catholic Order since 1710. It is the starting point of the Arabic letter in Lebanon and the region (by virtue of the Deacon Abdallah Al-Zakher in 1734 and is kept there until today)
The monastery housed the first elementary school in the region in 1735, and hosted the first important historic council for the Catholics (a continuation to the council held in the Monastery of prophet Isaiah). It contains sarcophagi and important archeological and historical vestiges which made it a hermitage for believers and tourists.
Some of these vestiges are:
– An ancient library that contains manuscripts dating back to the 10th century.
– Icons (around 89) distributed all over the monastery. Most important is the iconostasis in the church of Saint Nicolas. It is six meters and a half long 4.5m high. It contains statues and religious scenes from the old and New Testament. Among them, there are icons of Christ, Saint John the Baptist, Saint Nicolas, the Annunciation, and others.

11- The Monastery of our Lady of Deliverance – Bekfaya
In 1830, the Jesuit Fathers lived in the suburbs of Bikfaya upon the invitation of Emir Haidar Abillamaa, where they built a church on the ruins of a hermitage and decided to dedicate it to Saint Francis Regis.
On the inauguration day where the endorsement of the Saint’s paint (June 1833), the crowd cheered the name of Saint Mary. Father Remon Estev was surprised and he replaced the image of the saint with the image of our Lady of Deliverance (a beautiful copy of the work of the artist Sassaverats, conserved in Venice). Our Lady of Deliverance rose at a cry from the crowd.
During the events of 1840, our Lady of Deliverance showed miracles saving the inhabitants from his tyrannical actions of Ibrahim Basha.
The convent was restored several times and includes a magnificent church in which there is the painting of the Virgin Mary. The statue of the Virgin surmounts the cupola which has windows constructed according to the new Gothic architecture.

12- The Patriarchate of the Armenian Orthodox of Kilikia
The Patriarchate is located on the coast of Antelias. It’s an elegant, magnificent edifice that comprises a number of buildings making up this center of the Armenian spiritual values. It contains a museum (inaugurated in 30/3/1988) for the religious objects saved from the time of the Armenian Genocide. There is a church built according to the Armenian style, decorated with murals and holy images drawn by the artist Berberian.

Cazas of Baabda, Aley and Shouf
1. The Monastery of Saint George – Deir el-Harf
The Greek Orthodox monastery of Saint George is located in Deir el-Harf in the midst of a pine forest that covers Ras el Matn Mountain. Its construction date is unknown but the available documents reveal that it dates back to the 18th century. It has a simple architectural style: an open courtyard and, near it, a church that gathers the Orthodox inhabitants of the village. The iconostasis is wooden and the church is decorated with a rare collection of icons while rare frescoes cover its walls and vaults.

2. The church of our Lady – Ras el-Matn
It was built by the Greek Orthodox community on the ruins of an ancient church in 1710. Damaged during the war in Lebanon, it was renovated, its icons restored and inaugurated in 2001.

3. The Monastery of Saint George – Souk el-Gharb
Located 23 km south-east of Beirut, this monastery is affiliated with the Archdiocese of Beirut. It is actually the summer residence of Archbishop of Beirut. Built in 1904 (under Archbishop Gerasimos Mesarrah), the monastery church is distinguished by its large rocky pillars surrounding its outer galleries and hallways and the rare icons and wooden carved iconostasis (from 1905).
On the left side of the church, there is an archeological monastery (from the early 20th century) that houses rocky, vaulted halls. The church was exposed to partial destruction during the war but was renovated later.

4. The church of Saydet el-Telleh (the church of our Lady of the Hill) Deir el-Qamar
At the heart of Deir el-Qamar, in the maze of old houses and narrow streets, a small staircase leads to the front of the church of El Saydet Tallé or Our Lady of the Hill which was constructed on the ruins of a Phoenician temple dedicated to Astarte. Extended, restored and rebuilt, the church is dedicated to the miraculous Virgin Mary and is one of the places most frequented pilgrimage in Lebanon. The first Sunday of August is celebrated lavishly in this church enclosed by buildings of the convent of monks.

5. The Monastery of our Savior – Joun
On a green spot next to Joun (where Lady Ester Astanhope lived) stands the Greek Catholic monastery of our Savior on a piece of land offered by the Cheikhs of the Joumblat family: a red tiled roof, a large building superimposed with a clock tower, with a fountain in an open court. Its church is a masterpiece. It contains rare manuscripts and a collection of precious icons and other objects used for worship.

The Monastery of Saint Maroun – Hermel
A few hundreds meters from the source of el-Assi River (Orontos) in the Hermel area of the north Beqaa is the Monastery of Saint Maroun. This amazing three-story cave is cut into sheer rock more than 90 meters high. Known as “Mougharet Al Raheb” or Cave of the Monks, this is, in fact, a pilgrims’ monument. An altar, a staircase and small cells carved from the rock make up this place of devotion, marked by humidity and trusteeship. According to widely accepted legend, the site is identified with Saint Maroun, founder of the Maronite community.

The church of our Lady-Bichwat
Bechwat lies on the versant of the western chain of Mount Lebanon. It is 110km from Beirut and 19km from Baalbeck. Its latitude is 1300m. It was named after an Egyptian Saint, Anba Bishey. It contains ancient ruins (oil mills, statues and sarcophagi …) that date back to the Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine and Arab periods. But the fame of the town today is due to the presence of a miraculous sanctuary (the sanctuary of our Lady of Bechwat). Lebanese people who belong to both Muslim and Christian religions visit this place for blessing or to ask for a remedy for a sick person.

The church was built by the Keyrouz family which migrated from Bcharreh in 1790. Despite the renovations (1998), today it holds its first architecture. Since its construction, the temple showed many miracles and believers got many benedictions, particularly in 2004 when the appearances of Saint Mary occurred several time starting the 21 of August till today. The first appearance was to a child from Jordan, Mohamed el-Hawadi and the last was to children, Diana Ali el-Ajam and Michael Adnan Mikhail (May, 2006).
Bichwat witnessed the largest and most remarkable pilgrimage on Septembre 5, 2004 when all the roads that reached it were blocked by worshipers’ cars and buses at a distance of tens of kilometers.

The sanctuary celebrates our Lady’s day on August 15. Religious and public festivals are held for a week until August 21 to commemorate the appearances that took place in 2004. Continually, groups of pilgrims visit Bishwat. They come from Lebanon and from all religious sects: pilgrims also come from different parts of the world, particularly from the Arab countries (Syria, Jordan, Egypt, the Gulf …).

Monastery and church of our Lady of Nativity – Ras Baalbeck
Inhabited by the Greek Catholic Fathers of the Basilian Aleppin order, this convent has a miraculous church. It was built during the Byzantine period and restored in the sixteenth century.

Hermit’s Caves – Fourzol
In the Beqaa plain, 56 km from Beirut, numerous caves are cut into the rocks around the small village of Fourzol, which in former times was an important Christian center. These caves, which sheltered monks or “habis” (hermits) attest to an isolated but intense monastic life.

Our Lady of Zahleh and Beqaa
Saint Mary has a special historical importance in the hearts of the inhabitants of Beqaa in general and in the hearts of people of Zahleh in particular who believe in her active presence in protecting the city and its people.

Every year, religious festivals and ceremonies are held in the churches and houses to venerate Virgin Mary. Religious celebrations and prayers are celebrated in churches and homes. In 1958, after the survival of Zahle from the events that ravaged Lebanon, members of the brotherhoods and residents associations in the city met with the Archbishop of Catholics ( Archbishop Aftimos Yoakim ) and asked for permission to build a sanctuary tower on a hill in the city, a sanctuary that would be crowned by the statue of the Virgin Mary , a symbol of their love and appreciation for the Blessed Virgin.

The Archbishop agreed and the construction of the tower began in 1965. The elevation of the statue to the top of the tower witnessed a public festival on the 26th June 1965. Work on the tower and its precincts stopped during the war in Lebanon (1975-1990).

It started again under a new committee and a new archbishop (Archbishop Andre Haddad). A very large church was built surrounded by chapels that can receive 1000 persons during festivals. The entrances, the spaces around the church, the workers’ rooms and the room for souvenirs were done.

The restoration of the statue damaged by rust and shrapnel was undertaken in August 2004 and end in late April 2005. The inauguration of the tower festivities were celebrated in 27 May 2005, with a Mass of inauguration. The statue of Our Lady of Zahle and the Beqaa now stands carrying the child Jesus in one hand and a bunch of grapes in the other hand, while Jesus is carrying an ear of wheat.

In August 2004, the statue of Saint Mary was renovated because it was partly damaged by natural factors as well as by shrapnels of koms. Restoration finished at the end of April 2005. A majestic festival was hold in May 27. There was a ceremonial mass and official inauguration of the statue of Saint Mary (symbol of the produce of the plain of Beqaa and a symbol of the love of Jesus to humanity according to the holy sracrament (Euchatist), the holy bread and wine).
The building is 75 meter high divided as such:
From the ground to the base of the tower: 12 meters;
The tower, from the base to the base of the statue: 54 meters.
The height of the statue is 9 meters. It weighs 7500 Kg.

The Archbishopric of the Greek Catholic Melkites of Fourzol, Zahleh and Beqaa.
Since its establishment, it has been playing a vital role in the history of the city, the region and of Lebanon. It was established in the early fifth century by Archbishop Saint Bardanos in the village of Fourzol. In 1727, Archbishop Aphtimos Fadel transferred the seat of the bishopric in Zahle, who announced his final and ultimate union with the head of the Catholic Church, the pope of Rome.

The archbishopric contains the cathedral of our Lady of Deliverance “Saydet Al Najat” built in 1846. It fell to ashes during the events of 1860 and was restored in 1861.
In 15/9/1987 it was exposed to an explosion that destroyed many of its parts as well as its literacy and ecclesiastical treasures. However, Archbishop André Haddad (who miraculously survived), restored it until it became more beautiful than before. The inauguration took place in 15/8/1991. In the Cathedral, there is an icon of our Lady of Deliverance brought from Austria.

The church of Saint Charbel – Zahleh
Recently built new church dedicated to Saint Charbel. Inaugurated on 04/11/2006, it is affiliated to the Monastery of Saint Anthony the Grand (Zahleh) and to the Lebanese Maronite Order.

Casa Becharre and Zgharta
Wadi Qadicha or the Holy Valley
In the high majestic mountains of the north, Christianity’s long presence is marked by countless sanctuaries and places of devotion. The deep gorge of Wadi Qadishaopens dramatically at the foot of Bsharreh village, then branches into many small valleys to make its tortuous way to the sea.

In there, spiritual and mystical life have found the best place for prayer, meditation, devoutness, and the dedication of oneself to the worship of God in natural caves that were rarely touched by man and in caves engraved for piety and mortification, where life is an endless silent dialogue aimed at meeting God face to face.

The word “Qadisha” comes from a Semitic root meaning “holy”, a fitting name for this gorge whose depths lie at the bottom of sheer cliffs and which is rich in water from melting snow.
In medieval times, Christian monks rediscovered the caves and shelters that had been inhabited in antiquity and reused them to build chapels, hermitages and rock-cut monasteries in the valley. Monks of all confessions, even Muslim Sufis, secluded themselves here to lead a life of contemplation and meditation. They prayed in many languages: Arabic, Greek, Syriac and Ethiopian.

1. Deir Saydet Qannoubin (Monastery of our Lady of Qannoubin) – Qannoubin Valley
In a grandiose and almost wild setting overlooked by the small towns of Blawza and Diman, stands Deir Qannoubin, which from the 15th to the 19th centuries was the residence of the Maronite patriarchs. It is this monastery, (“Kenobion” means “monastery” in Greek) with its atmosphere of piety that gave its name to this part of the valley.
Built into the rock, the monastery’s church is a model of simplicity and austerity. Among its wall paintings, dating from the last two centuries, is a representation of the coronation of the Virgin by the Trinity, an inscription above it in Syriac is from a passage in the Song of Solomon: “Come from Lebanon, my betrothed and you will be crowned”.
A nearby annex to the monastery is the chapel of Saint Marina where 18 Maronite patriarchs are entombed. It is said that Saint Marina was falsely accused and performed long and hard penitence here. Later she was consecrated as the spiritual godmother of the valley.

2. Deir Mar Elishaa (Monastery of Saint Eliseus) – Qannoubin valley
It is built into a great cliff where long ago hermits fixed their cells. Its church is composed of four small altar niches cut from the rock. Very ancient, the exact date of its construction is unknown, but records show that the Lebanese Maronite Order was founded in 1695 and that a Maronite bishop libed in the monastery in the 14th century. Travelers of the 17th and 18th centuries also mentioned Deir Mar Elishaa.

3. Deir Mar Sarkis (Monastery of Saint Serjurs) – Qannoubin valley
In this Holy Valley where dialogue with God seems continuous, such is the number of sanctuaries where prayer or pious thought links the individual to the Eternal. Originally the site of Mar Sarkis was probably a cave tomb and today all that remains is an altar above the rock-cut vault, the generous shade of two old Mediterranean oak trees gives this place an atmosphere of calm and serenity appropriate to meditation.

4. Deir Es-Salib (Monastery of the Cross) – Qannoubin valley
The rocky cave-hermitage of Dei res-Salib draws the attention of visitors as much for its difficulty of access as the poverty and humility of its appearance. Even with ropes and ladders it was difficult to reach the cells of these anchorites, who deliberately cut themselves off from the world and lived only for the love of God.
Inscriptions and frescoes, some going back to at least the 13th century, can still be seen here although they are badly preserved. One can see Chalcedonian remains, writing in Arabic and Syriac, as well as scarps of frescos badly damaged by erosion and vandalism. Deir es-Salib attracted hermits and monks of all sects and was also a rallying point for Lebanese Christianity in early times.

5. The Chapel of Saydet Hawqa (The Chapel of our Lady of Hawqa) – Qannoubin valley
This small monastery, probably dating to the 13th century, is composed of a chapel and a few monks’ cells constructed within a shallow cave. Deserted most of the year, the monastery becomes the site of pilgrimage during the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin when a high mass is celebrated at the site on the evening of the 14th of August.

6. Deir Mar Antonios Qaozhaya (Monastery of Saint Anthony Qozhaya) – Qozhaya valley
Another monastery in this Holy Valley is Deir Qozhaya, whose location in a wilderness of lush greenery gives i tan aspect of primeval solitude. “Qozhaya” in the Syriac language means “treasure of life” and here the treasure was Christ himself, for whom monks abandoned worldly goods and consecrated themselves to poverty and prayer. Today one can still see the cells, stuck to the rock like wasps’ nests that sheltered the first hermits – those “men intoxicated with God”.

The origins of the monastery go back to the 5th century when the monastic movement was taking hold in the region. A model of religious community life, Deir Mar Antonios Qozhaya was the site of the Middle East’s first printing press, which was imported around 1585. The first publication, in 1610, was an edition of the Psalms, now kept in the library of the Holy Spirit University in Kaslik. Many other liturgical and religious books were published here as well.

The church of Qozhaya is the joint work of man and nature. Set in a natural cave, its upper part is formed of a series pf rose colored stone arcades resting on a dozen rose bases. Its façade, with its small columns, its Moorish door and triple bell are hardly separate from the cliff face itself.

The cave of Saint Anthony, locally known as the “cave of the mad”, used to shelter the possessed and demented who were brought here to be cured by the saint. Today it is with sense trepidation that one regards the chains that held them.

The monastery remains an important Christian site and even now, at the start of the third millennium, a hermit priest lives in a cell in Qozhaya where he continues the austere monastic tradition of mortification, prayer and absolute devotion to God.

7. Deir el-Saydet (monastery of Notre Dame) – Diman
Not far from Bsharreh, sheltered by cedar trees and dense vegetation, is the summer residence of the Maronite patriarch in Diman. It is a graceful building with a red tile roof, many exterior arcades and a grand courtyard overlooking the Qadisha Valley. The church is decorated with the superb murals of the Lebanese artist Saliba Doueihy.

8. Mar Mema Church – Ehden
The Mar Mema church Ehden was erected in 748 on the ruins of a pagan temple built by Macedonians and dedicated to the god of the sun.
It is one of the oldest Maronite churches in Lebanon and it contains a main aisle and a lateral one. On its walls there are crosses and inscriptions, some of which are in Greek, in addition to a date 494 after the time of Alexander the Macedonian. The baptismal font takes the shape of a big jar inlaid in the church wall.
Mar Mema (260-275) is the patron of shepherds and nurses; he was executed at Caesarea Cappadocia, at the age of 15 during the persecution of the Roman Emperor Aurelian.

9. Saydet al-Marahem (our Lady of Misericord) – Mizyara
It is large modern sanctuary dedicated to Virgin Mary built by a wealthy Lebanese faithful. It has a high tower crowned by the statue of the Virgin Mary at the foot of which life-size statues illustrate passages from the Gospel (The 12 disciples, the nativity, the baptism of Christ turn the flight into Egypt, the miracle at Cana, the Last Supper, etc..). It is served by the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament.

10. Saint George Church – Ehden
According to ancient historical references, this church is one of the oldest and most magnificent churches in Lebanon. According to Father Henri Lamens , it goes back to the “era of Justinian or architects who adopted his style of construction”. Stones taken from pagan temples were used to construct this church. It contains three ancient scriptures. The first one in Greek is ambiguous except two lines that say “built in 584 by the age of Alexander, or by 272 of our era”. While the other two are in Syriac language. Over the remains of this church, the inhabitants of Ehden built a new one in 1855. Habib Beik Karam, who was in charge of the church properties at that time, proposed that new project. Construction was suspended during the events of 1860 before resuming in 1870 and be completed in 1880. Its dome rises to a height of 16 meters above the level of the church was built by artisan Boulos, son of Deacon Gerges Yammine in 1898.

11. Saydet el-Hosn (our Lady of the Fortress) – Ehden
In the north eastern part of Ehden and on a very high hill that overlooks most of North Lebanon and a few Syrian lands, the ancient inhabitants of Ehden built an indomitable fortress crowned today with two Maronite churches, an ancient and a modern one, dedicated to Virgin Mary “our Lady of the Fortress“.

1. Theancient church of “our Lady of the Fortress”
The inhabitants of Ehden built a sanctuary dedicated to Virgin Mary, their patron, to be their fortress and refuge. The Mamlukes pulled down the fortress and the church in 1283. The inhabitants of Ehden rebuilt the church using the stones of the ancient fortress. They rebuilt it again after the earthquake in 1705. They renovated it in 1836 after a destruction that was mentioned by French traveler and poet Lamartine when he visited the region in 1833.

2. The New Church of “our Lady of the Fortress”
This imposing Marian shrine adjacent the old church was inaugurated in 1989, its architecture is not at all traditional: a large round church surmounted by a cone crowned by a huge white statue of Virgin Mary with open arms (made in Italy). She is miraculous and the statue attracts visitors and worshipers who come to obtain graces and blessings in particularly during the first week of September until the 8th of this month (Birth of the Virgin Mary).

12. Monastery of Mar Mora – Ehden
It is the cradle of the Lebanese Maronite Order located in the lowest part of Ehden above the village of Ain-toura. Its construction dates back to 1339 (as mentioned in the margin of a gospel that was found in the Church of Bejjeh in the region of Jbeil during the times of Patriarch Doueihi). It was restored in 1695 by the founders of the Order Gebrayel Hawwa, Abdallah Qaraali and Youssef El-Bitn and was surrounded by a wall turning it to a the first seat of the Superior Order.

Management convent was rotated among the founding until 1701 , when they gave up. Fallen into disrepair, it remains today in two adjacent caves feature stone arches. Traces of cells built by monks in 1695 are still visible. In order to preserve the monastic presence in the region, the Lebanese Maronite Order was taken January 17, 1995 ( the feast of Saint Anthony the Great ) with the agreement of the Patriarchal Maronite bishopric ( Vicariate of Zgharta ) in order to restore the ancient monastic heritage.

13. Mar Sarkis and Bacchus Monastery (Deir Ras el-Nahr) Monastery of Saint Sergius and Bacchus) – Ehden.
Pride of the Antonin Maronite Order, it is a large monastery, one of the largest in Lebanon. Its history and its importance are closely related to the great Patriarch Estephan Doueihy.
Formerly known as Mar Sarkis Ras -en- Nahr, or Monastery of St. Sergius “Start of the river” the source, or torrent for its proximity to the source of Mar Sarkis. Its construction dates back to before 1473, death year of Bishop Peter of Ehden, according to the writings of Patriarch DOUAIHY. Nothing remains of the convent except the ruins of two ancient churches on the east side of the ground floor. Patriarch Estephan Douaihy undertook its restoration seen that he received his priestly sacraments there after his return from Rome. He was known for having declined all offers of foreign universities or abandoning the Lebanese Maronite and Syriac heritage for the Latin heritage. Fouad Ephrem Al Boustani cites that “he preferred Lebanon to Italy, Ehden to Rome, and the village school to major universities in the world, the stone benches under the oaks and cypresses to university chairs.” After his ordination as a priest, he opened a school in the monastery of St. Sarkis Ras Year – Nahr.

In 1739, the monastery was given to the congregation of Saint Anthony after one flow was added to it. Today, the monastery contains documents and manuscripts that inform about its history and about the history of patriarch Douaihy and his accomplishments.

Caza Koura and Batroun
1. Churches of Amioun
On a high flat-topped hill or “tell” surrounded by olive groves, Amioun lies in the heart of the Koura region. Here is a wealth of churches whose stones testify to the passing of several civilizations. The church of Mar Gerios or Saint George was built on the ruins of a pagan temple and then remodeled after the Crusader era. There are numerous indications that a tunnel (since collapsed) once linked this church to a cave near the church of Saint John.

The red-roofed church of Mar Youhanna or Saint John sits on a steep cliff riddled with cells like a huge bee hive. The cells seen in the cliff above the main road are, in fact, funerary caves from Phoenician and Greco-Roman times that later served as monks’ shelters.

The little church of Mar Fawqa or Saint Phocas, built amid a jumble of old houses during the Crusader period, is noted for its fine wall paintings. One of the frescoes represents Christ descending into hell and holding out a helping hand to Adam and Eve. On the pillars are painted figures of Christ, Saint Phocas, Simon Stylites and other saints.

2. Dair Saydet Hammatoura (monastery of our Lady of Hammatoura) – Kousba
Built into the rocky folds of the mountain, the impressive Monastery of Hammatoura can only be reached by foot. Located near Amioun and Kousba, the monastery is rich in medieval paintings, accidently revealed by a fire in the late 1980’s. pilgrims and those who are fulfilling a vow walk up to the monastery on foot over a winding path, while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

3. Deir Balamand
Eight centuries ago Cistercian monks founded their first overseas abbey on a promontory south of Tripoli and gave it the name of Belmont. Known today as Balamand, it is the seat of a Greek Orthodox monastery dedicated to the Virgin and Saint Gorge.

Balamand possesses a remarkable library with important manuscripts, two iconostases and a collection of important icons the work of painters from a number of countries who came here at different times to contribute to the iconographic heritage of the monastery.

A masterpiece of austerity, the arrangement of structures around the cloister’s courtyard is characteristic of a Cistercian monastery plan. The Church of Our Lady of Balamand is composed of a single nave ending in a large apse flanked by two rectangular rooms. The iconostasis of carved wood was made in Macedonia at the end of the 17th century, although one part of it was made by local artisans. The bell tower, a gothic monument of local workmanship, is one of the most remarkable exterior elements of the church and is the only stone bell tower extant in the Middle East. Today a well known seminary with a distinguished library operates on the premises and the University of Balamand (opened in 1988) is located nearby.

Faithful to the great spiritual tradition of Eastern Christianity of which it is a trustee, Balamand is an example of Christ’s exhortation “You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free”.

4. Churches of Enfe
Along this quiet shoreline with its salt flats and its incredibly blue sea, are three churches worth visiting.
Saydet el-Rih or Our Lady of the Wind, built in the Byzantine era, is now in ruin and open to the sky. Nonetheless this little chapel retains traces of wall paintings representing Saint Gorge and Saint Demetrios on horseback, the Omnipotent Christ, two evangelists, some saints and the Virgin calming the tempest.

The church of Saint Catherin, which dates from the time of the Crusades, is partially restored and still used by the Greek Orthodox community. Its façade is decorated with one of the largest rose windows seen in a Crusader church of this period.

In the old quarters of this same area is a church with a double altar, dedicated to Saint Simon Stylites and Saint Michel. Dating from the 17th-18th centuries, Saint Simon’s part of the church is interesting for its ceiling that incorporates jars in its masonry to absorb echoes and improve acoustics.

5. Deir El-Saydet – (the Covent of Virgin Mary) – Keftoun
In a landscape of rugged cliffs amid olive and fruit trees, the picturesque Greek Orthodox convent of Kaftoon is set into a cliff of ochre stone. East of the small town of Hamat, this monastery has a tiny chapel cut from the rock. Nearby is a very ancient Maronite Monastery.

6. Covent of Saydet El-Nourieh (Covent of Our Lady of Light) – Hamat
At the top of a cliff overlooking the north coast of Lebanon stands a Greek Orthodox monastery known as Deir el Nouriyeh or Our Lady of the Light. Object of pilgrimage and a holy place, the monastery originated in the 17th century and was completed in the 19th century, its structure is that of a cloister where monastic life centered around an interior courtyard. The church is on the basilica plan and possesses only a nave, while the modern iconostasis is of marble.

Steep stairs near the monastery lead down to a cave carved in the cliff, exposed to the wind and sea. It is here that the story of the light that gives its name to the monastery is celebrated. It is said that two sailors were in peril on a stormy sea when the Virgin appeared to them as a light and guided them gently to the shore.

7. The Chapel of the Holy Savior – Kubba
Protected by a wooden area not far from the sea, Kubba is a small village north of Batroun. There, amid pleasant greenery, one finds the chapel of the Holy Savior, known locally as “Sansabour”. Built in the 12th century during the Crusader era, the beautiful structure is in an excellent state of preservation.

Below the church, at the foot of the hill, lies remains of the little modern shrine of Mar Yaqoob (Saint James). This was built on a Crusader-era church, which itself was constructed on the emplacement of a Byzantine church. The Byzantine church, in turn, was built with material from a Roman temple. What makes this place exceptional is the mix of ancient elements including a Roman inscription and sculptured Byzantine stones and mills, on the order side of the coastal road are some prehistoric caves, one of which was transformed into a shrine dedicated to saint John the Baptist.

8. Deir Mar Youhanna Maroun (Monastery of Saint John Maroun) – Kfarhay
This monastery, one of the oldest in Lebanon was built by Saint John Maron, Bishop of Batroun and Mount Lebanon in the year 685. Saint John Maroun used to live on the shore of the Aassi River Orontes then he moved to the monastery of Kfarhay in 694 and brought with him the Holy relic of the head of Saint Maron (from Mount Semaan near Hama in Syria) and kept it in the church of the monastery where it remained until 1130. Due to these relics, the monastery was known as “Deir Rish Moran” meaning in Syriac “land of Maron”. St. John Maron, the first Maronite Patriarch, lived in the monastery of Kfarhay until his death in the year 707, was buried there, but the location of his tomb was never found. In 1131 , a Dominican monk of the congregation of St. Jacob , took the saint’s relics to Italy, where he built a church in his name.

The efforts of the Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Mar Nasr Alla Butros Sfeir and Archbishop of Batroun, Youhanna Boulos Saade (his residence is in Kfarhay in summer) succeeded in bringing back the relic of Saint Maroun to Bkirke (on the 8th of January, 2000) and later to take it to Kfarhay.

Four other patriarchs succeeded patriarch Yuhanna Maroun and lived in this monastery named the Monastery of Saint John of Kfarhay by the Crusaders. It was damaged by the Mamelouk but was restored in 1787. Its halls and colonnade and its triple bell, in particular, add to the holiness of this place and it is still carrying on its cultural and agricultural activities today.

9. The Chapel of Kfar Chliman
Kfar Chlimane village in the Batroun area is reached by way of Sourat. In the lower part of the village lies a recently restored church sheltered by a grove of trees that bring shade and life to the dry landscape. Behind the church is an ancient funerary cave that in the 12th-14th centuries was made into a chapel known as “Sayde Naya”. The cave chapel is notable for its beautiful medieval paintings representing divine forms of Christ, the Virgin and Saint John the Baptist.

10. Monastery of Saint Cyprien and Justinian – Kfifane
The Monastery of saint Cyprien and Justianian in Kfifane village near Batroun is today a pilgrimage site thanks to the Blessed Nematallah Kassab Al Haridni, who is buried in this modest place. Built well before the 17th century, in 1766 the Lebanese Maronite Order transformed the monastery into a seminary for the study of theology, philosophy, literature and law. Among its students was not only Father Al Hardini but also Charbel Makhlouf, who in 1989 was canonized as a saint.

Born in 1810, Nematallah Al Hardini became a novice at a young age and pronounced his vows at the monastery of Saint Anthony Qozhaya when he was 20. He received the sacerdotal order on December 25, 1835 and hid life became an example of obedience and uninterrupted prayer. An outstanding linguist, notably in the Arab and Syriac languages, Father Al-Hardini included Charbel Makhlouf among his students. Nematallah Al-Hardini died on December 14, 1858 at the age of 48.
He was beatified by Pope John-Paul II in the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome on Sunday May 10/1998 and was canonized in May 16/2004.

11. Monastery of Saint Joseph/Santuary of Saint Rafqa – Jrabta
In the deep “wilderness” east of Batroun, some distance from Kfifane where the Blessed Father Hardini lived, is the Monastery of Mar Youssef Al Dahr at Jrabta. Surrounded with ancient trees, the monastery lies at the heart of a lonely region notable for its savage beauty. It is here that the Blessed Sister Rafqa is buried. Born on June 19, 1833, she entered the order of maronite sisters at the age of 39, aspiring to total devotion to God. Her life was one of continual prayer; she asked to participate in Christ’s passion and this grace was accorded her. Her Calvary was to last 29 years and she died a saintly death in 1914 at age 81. Buried in the shaded convent garden, her saintliness was quickly manifest. Her remains were moved to the tomb that still remains in the church and soon it became a place of pilgrimage. On November 17, 1985 she was beatified by the Holy See.

12. Churches of Edde
Edde, a few kilometers southeast of Batroun, is a small town with a number churches, two of which are particularly interesting. Mar Saba, a small medieval building of pale stone, still retains fragments of 13th century wall paintings. These include Saint Gorge and Saint Demetrios on horseback and a crucifixion scene. The church of Mar Mema, dedicated to Saint Mamas, is more modern in appearance although built with antique elements.

13. The church of Mar Nohra – Smar Jbeil
The old church of Mar (Saint) Nohra, said to contain the tomb of this Christian missionary from Persia, stands in the center of Smar Jbeil, a village in the Batroun District. The church is constructed of mixed elements from a Roman temple and some later material, notably from medieval times. Besides an exterior staircase leading to the roof, faithful to the traditions of the time, the main entrance is decorated with three interlinked chains, all cut from the same stone. A little ruined chapel with a single nave can be seen next to mar Nohra.

14. Churches of Hardine
In Hardine there are around thirty monasteries, churches and hermitages. Among the most important of them we can mention: the monastery of Saint John El-Chaqf; the Monastery of Saint Stephan; the Monastery of Saint Sarkius (Sergins) el-Qarm (patriarchal seat); the Monastery of Saint Richa (in which lived many bishops whose 11 are now known); the Monastery of Saint Fauqa; the church of Saints Sarkis (Sergius) and Bacchus (carved into the rock, and known under the name “church of baptism” in reference to the baptistery in which Saint Neemtallah Hardini was baptized and who is still preserved); the church of Saint Challita; The church of Saint Nohra; The church of Saint Elias …

15. The churches of Tannourine
Tannourine contains many churches and hermitages carved into the rock dating from the Middle Ages, including: the church of Notre Dame, Saint Challita church, the chapel and hermitage of Saint Jean, the hermitage Saints Sarkis and Bakhos (Sergius and Bacchus).

*The Mar Antonios and Saydet El Azraa Churches
Set in a quiet spot beside a stream and shaded by poplar and walnut trees, the churches of Mar Antonios (Saint Anthony) and Saydet El AZraa (Our Lady the Virgin) share a single roof. Each has an independent door surmounted by a small window, while on the inside a communicating door links the two parts of the building. These churches, which are unique in the Tannourine region, were not built at exactly the same time and have slightly different dimensions.

*Deir Mar Antonios or The Monastery of Saint Anthony – Houb
The word “Houb” comes from “houbou” or “love”, a designation that applies both to the monastery and to the region of Tannourine which is famous for its natural beauty and many springs. The Tannourine area is also known for its more than 50 churches.

The monastery stands at some 1400 meters above sea level in a lush green area amid the streams that branch into the al-Jawz river. Also called Mar Antonios (Monastery of Saint Anthony), it was built around 1700. The large two-story building has a red tile roof and its church has been carefully restored.

Caza Tripoli, Al-Minyeh Donnieh and Akkar
1. The church of Saint John – Tripoli
A crusader church known as Saint John of Pilgrim Mount can be found inside the maronite cemetery of Abu Samra two hundred meters from the great citadel of Tripoli. Two joined chapels communicate by a central door, thus forming a simple “house of God” inhabited by silence and peace.

2. The church of Saint Chmouneh (Salomé) – Chadra
It is an old church dedicated to Saint Chmouneh and the seven infants. It was built by the Syrians during the first centuries of Christianity. Chmouneh or Salome is the mother of seven children mentioned in the old testament (in the book of the Maccahees). They were martyred during the time of Antiochus the Great in 168 BC.

3. The churches of Qobayyat
Near the silk workshop, stand the school and the church of St. George in Italian style architecture. In the middle of Qobayyat there is the church of Saint Challita, with only one wing and a niche built with ancient stones found during the reconstruction of the church; two of the stones carry inscriptions in Greek. There are two churches in Qobayyat which were built over the ruins of old temples: the church of Saint George and the church of Saint Daniel.

4. Deir Saydet El Qalaa (Monastery of our Lady of the Fortress-El-Mounjez)
It was constructed in 1890 and built of basalt stones.

Christian worship places in South Lebanon
The provinces of Sidon and Tyre
1. Saydet el-Mantara (our Lady of the Guardian) – Maghdousheh
On a hill overlooking the coast a few kilometers from Sidon stands the sanctuary of Saydet El Mantara or Our Lady of the Guardian (from the Arabic “Natra” which means “wait”).
According to tradition, Mary, mother of Jesus, followed her son on his journeys between Cana, Tyre, Sarafand, and Sidon. Popular Christian tradition in Lebanon says that it was on this hill in Maghdoushe that the Virgin awaited the return of Jesus from his apostolic wanderings.

The cave of Saydet El Mantara was made into a sanctuary by early Christians. Then in the 1720’s a villager discovered an icon of the Virgin on a small altar at the bottom of the cave-by then long forgotten and covered over. Today the site is marked by a small modern tower on which stands a statue of the Virgin holding the infant Jesus. An annual pilgrimage takes place in Maghdoushe every September 18 to mark the feast of the birth of the Virgin.

2. The church of Saint Elias – Sidon
The Maronite community built this church in 1610 on a piece of land donated by Jalal ed-din family. Today, it is used for other purposes. Its bell is the only thing that is preserved till now.

3. The church of Saint Nicolas-Sidon
It was built in the 15th century (the cathedral of the Byzantine Antiochian archbishopric in Sidon) following the Christian worship that dates back to the 7th century. Its dome is the biggest in the city and its altar dates back to the Mameluke period. Its iconostasis dates back to the 18th century. In 1819, the church was divided into two parts: one for the Greek Orthodox community and another one for the Greek Catholics. The latter part is closed in order to be renovated. At the door of the Greek Orthodox bishop (part of the cathedral) is a small chapel dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. The church tradition places the memory of a meeting between these two Saints (around 58 AD) according to the Acts of the Apostles.

4. The Latin Church – Sidon
It was constructed in 1856. The Franciscan Fathers are in charge of the church. They live in the ancient headquarters of the French consulate (Khan el Franj) next to the convent and to the school of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Apparition.

5. The cathedral of Saint Nicolas – Sidon
This cathedral lies outside the boundaries of ancient Sidon near the Greek Orthodox archbishopric.
It dates back to 1896. The cathedral and the archbishopric contains frescoes (scenes from the old and new testaments) as well as mosaics (were put in 1996 in the front part of the altar) that date back to the 6th century. They were brought from a ruined church discovered in the village of Anan.

6- Al Sarafand
Jesus himself speaks of Sarepta (modern Sarafand) a small town between Tyre and Sidon, in which he had to pass while going from one city to another when he mentioned the life of prophet Elias. He said, “But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land. But unto none of them was Elias sent save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow”. (St. Luke 4 ÷ 25-26).
Today, no traces are found in Sarafand pertaining to this incident.

7. The Site of Cana of Galilee
Evidence that Cana El Jaleel (Cana of Galilee) is located in the south of Lebanon demonstrates the historical and Christian importance of this part of our country. This evidence not only includes Eusibius of Caesaria, the church historian who lived in the third century and the writings of Saint Jerome, but also the rock-carved hermitages that provide further proof of the early presence of Chritinity in the region.

The thesis that Christ’s first miracle, changing the water into wine at the wedding in Cana, took place in the small region has been upheld by several modern historians. In addition, the Gospel of St. John tells us that Christ performed a second miracle in this place. A nobleman from Capernaum journeyed to Cana to ask the Nazarene to cure his son, who was seriously ill. Jesus granted his request and the son was cured.

Cana is also the village of Nathaniel, one of Jesus’s first disciples, who is certainly the apostle Bartholomew of the Synoptic Gospels.

Today, in addition to the sanctuary of El Jaleel at Cana and that of Al-Sharquieh, south of Nabatiyeh, this region is considered a holy place. The cave of Cana has been restored by the Ministry of Tourism and declared an historic site.

*Historical Christian Sites in Tyre
Recent archaeological discoveries reveal traces of the first Byzantine church in the world found in Tyre. More Byzantine churches have been discovered in the area around Tyre.

From the Crusade era, there are remains of a cathedral that dates back to the 4th century. It is built on the ruins of a large cathedral which was pulled down in 303 upon the order of Diocletian.

It was reconstructed by The Venitians in 1227. William of Tyre was appointed bishop of the cathedral from 1244 until the end of the Crusade period. The kings of Jerusalem were crowned in this cathedral. It contained the tomb of the German Emperor, Frederic Barberousse.

During that period there were other churches named after the Saints Cosmos, Damian, Demetrius, John, Mary, Peter, Thomas (on the remains of Saint Thomas Church; the present church was built during the 18th century), James, Nicolas, Marine, Marcus (for the venetians), Lauran (for the Genoese) … All these churches were destroyed when the Franks were driven from Tyre and the Levant in the late thirteenth century.

Currently each of the Christian communities ( Orthodox , Greek Catholic and Maronite) has its own church and archbishopric in Tyre.

Al-Omari Great Mosque – Downtown Beirut
It is the largest mosque in Beirut. She took the name Al-Omari in honor of the Caliph Omar Ibn Al-Khattab. She was also known by the Futuh al-Islam Mosque (the conquests of Islam) or the Prophet’s Mosque Yahia. Under the reign of the Crusaders, it was transformed into a church before it was converted into a mosque by Saladin in 1187 (583 AH). The Crusaders resumed again and turn it into Cathedral 1197-1291 (593-690 AH), before it was finally conquered and converted into a mosque in 764 AH. by Emir Sunjur under the reign of Sultan Ashraf Khalil Muhammad son of Qalawun.

As-Saraya Mosque – Downtown Beirut
Also known as the Mosque of Emir Mansour Assaf, whose emirate extended from Nahr al-Kalb to Hama (1552-1580) – or As-Saraya Mosque, due to its proximity to the inner circle of the Emir Assaf. As its name Mosque Dar Al-Wilaya (Governor’s Palace), it is because of its proximity to the palace built by the Emir Fakherdine II, Governor of Beirut and Mount Lebanon to serve as a seat of government. Yet some references are more reasonable to attribute it to the Emir Turkmen Muhammad son of the Emir Mansour Assaf.
This mosque is located in central Beirut, east of the Great Mosque Al-Omari at the entrance of the souk Sursock, facing the south-east corner of the municipal palace.

Mosque of Emir Mounzer (An-Naoufara) – Downtown Beirut
Located in central Beirut in western al-Omari Mosque, opposite Bab Idriss and Souk Al-Tawile, it was built in 1620 (1056 AH) by the Emir Ibn Mounzer Suleiman Al-Tanoukhi the reign The Emir Fakherdin II. This mosque is also known as the Mosque An-Naoufara because of the fountain that was in his court. And as is the case in other mosques, a number of emirs and governors were buried in the mosque. Tomb of the Emir Mounzer, its founder, was murdered in the massacre of 1633, was north of the door before it was destroyed in 1860 (1277 AH). The Emir Haydar Al-Melhem Shihabi was buried there in 1762 (1175 AH), as well as his brother Mansour in 1775 (1188 AH). Now there is no trace of the graves, and the fountain which has completely disappeared.

Zaouiyah Al-Imam Al-Ouza’I – Downtown Beirut
Located at Souk Al-Tawile in central Beirut to Western Zaouiyah of Sheikh Ibn Arraq (whose ruins are rediscovered in 1991), the school is named after Imam Al-Ouza’i who lived Beirut and turned his home into a school of Islamic theology. In 1529 (935 AH), a fountain was built next to the school in memory of the Imam. But do not confuse this with Zaouiyah Al-Ouza’i mosque built in the suburbs of Hantous later known as the Ouza’i. It should be noted that Imam Al-Ouza’i died in his school in 774 (157 AH) in the last years of the reign of Caliph Abi Jaafar Al-Mansour and the inhabitants of Beirut had followed the procession carrying his mortal remains downtown to the southern suburbs, sandy and wooded area, known as the Hantous. The Zaouiyah held in the middle of Souk Al-Tawile until the outbreak of the Lebanese war in 1975 that turned it into ruins. A project is preparing to rebuild in the same location it occupied.

Al-Dabbaghah Mosque – Downtown Beirut
(Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq, may Allah be pleased with him)
Also known as the Holy Mosque Al-Omari (Not to be confused with the great Al-Omari Mosque) because it was built during the reign of Caliph Omar Ibn Al-Khattab, as mentioned by the famous traveler Sheikh Abdul Ghani Al-Nabulsi. It was also called the Mosque of the sea because of its proximity to the coast. As its name Al-Dabbaghah (tannery), it is due to its proximity to the neighborhood with this name and reserved for tanning. This mosque is located on the east side of the port of Beirut is home to warehouses in his basement, and is accessed by a staircase because of its elevation. Its construction date back to 1294 (693 AH) or 1343 (743 AH) in other references. At the time of the French mandate, the municipality of Beirut was destroyed under the pretext of road widening. But it was rebuilt in 1932 and took the name of Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Mosque. It was damaged during the Lebanese war (1975-1990), before it was restored and opened for prayer in 1999.

Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque – Downtown Beirut
Located in the center of the Place des Martyrs which is connected to the Riad El-Solh Square, it is distinguished by an Ottoman architectural style and Arabic. It contains a central void completely covered with a dome (with an area of 9778 m2 which includes the lower floors and mezzanines). It has three entrances on the sides, north and west. It is accessed through the outdoor seating next to the Place des Martyrs or the north side by an axial inlet in the direction of the Qubla, which also included the ablution facilities. The mosque has 4 minarets with a height of 65 m. The ceiling is high and about 16 m to 20 m in the central dome. It can accommodate up to 6250 worshipers and ground floor can accommodate up to 4200 people.
The mosque contains the grave of former Prime Minister Martyr Rafic Hariri (assassinated February 14, 2005).

Al-Majidiyyeh Mosque – Downtown Beirut
This mosque was originally one of the most important strongholds in Beirut. Built on the coast, it is an extension of Souk Al-Tawile side that overlooks the sea. His basement was used as a warehouse for marketers, including timber trade. Between 1257 and 1260 AH. Muslims in Beirut, lively zeal, had collected and added to the fortress a pavilion on the west side before converting it into a mosque, and in gratitude to the Sultan Abdul Majid (sultan between 1839 and 1861) which granted them support they gave to the mosque in 1844 (1260 AH) the name of Al-Majidiyyeh. Later, they built the inner courtyard and the ceiling and opened a door that gives access to the harbor road with a stone staircase.
A report in 1840 and during the siege of Beirut, the ships of the allied armies (Britain, Russia, Austria) in their war against the Egyptian army shelled the fortress that was not converted into a mosque in time. Traces of these bombings were still visible in the early twentieth century on the north facade. During the Lebanese war that had lasted from 1975 to 1990, the mosque was destroyed and rebuilt by the Directorate General of Islamic Pious Foundations (Endowments) who added near the old minaret another higher.

Ain Al Mrayssé Mosque
As indicated by the inscription above the entrance porch of the north facade, this mosque was built in the late nineteenth century, 1887-1888 (1305 AH), by Bayham and Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Al-Habari, the land is a gift from Sheikh Muhammad Alaya, later appointed Mufti of the Lebanese Republic. Islamic religious foundations have restored the mosque and his court in 1951, and installed water pipes for ablution. An arched doorway was moved to the Mosque of Emir ‘Assaf and placed in the wall. A report was also a fountain in the East corner of the courtyard overlooking the North Sea side.

In recent years, the mosque was renovated, while preserving its historic character, and finally the main entrance was moved to the north side of the sea, when the Coast Highway was drawn by the municipality of the city.

Mosque and Mausoleum of Imam Al-Ouza’I
The suburb Al-Ouza’i, formerly called Hantous is located 4km south of Beirut; its mosque was known by Hantous Mosque. The name change is due to the fact that Imam Abou Amrou Abdul Rahman Ibn Amr Al-Ouza’i who had lived in his Zawiya in Souk Al-Tawile in central Beirut and turned his home into a school of Islamic studies, was buried in 774 ( 157 AH) in a corner inside the Hantous Mosque.

The mosque built Ouza’i consists of two sections, the old one, and the new one added at the eastern side of the old one. The new mosque was built nearby in 1954 (1375 AH) under the name of El-Imam Al-Ouza’i. The General Directorate of the Islamic Waqfs has restored the old mosque and its historical minaret and made some improvements.

Al- Msaytbeh Mosque
Located in the district of Msaytbeh near the residence of President Saeb Salam, it was built in 1884 (1302 AH) during the reign of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. The governor of Syria Ahmed Hamdi Pasha had partly contributed to the building cost, in addition to the contributions collected from the people of Beirut. Some refurbishments and renovations were made in 1973 (1393 AH) and lasted until February 1975 (Safar 1395 AH).

Ras Al-Naba’ Mosque
This mosque was built by the deceased Omar el-Ghazawi in Beirut in 1299AH/1882AC. Some old people of Beirut reported that this building previously contained a fountain in the northern part of the outer courtyard. Many reparations and additions were done to this building during the year 1397AH/1977AC.

OTHER MOSQUES
Mosque Basta Tahta Basta Fawqa Mosque, Mosque Bourj Abi Haydar Al-Sidani in Ras Al-Naba ‘Mosque’ Alam Al-Sharq in Ashrafieh, Al-Birjaoui, Al-Hurj (Al-Halbouni and Houri), Mosque of Imam Ali Al-Tariq Jadide Mosque Al-Raml Zaydanieh Al-Qassar Mosque, Mosque ‘Aisha Bakkar, Zouqaq Al-Blat, Mrayssé Mosque Al-Ain, Al-Hamra Mosque Al Ashrafieh-Hassanein Mosque Qraytem Mosque Makkaoui (Hamad Street) Mosque Shatila Shehab Mosque, Al-Daouq Al-Khalia Al-Saoudiah Khaled Ibn Al-Walid Mosque in Krantinah, Al-Khodr, Mosque Martyrs Al-Khashoukji, Al-Houri, Ammash Mosque, Gamal Abdel Nasser Mosque, Al-Dana Mosque Mosque. However it should be noted that the date of construction of some of the mosques above mentioned last is relatively recent, after the Ottoman era, whether it was in a few years.

Caza of Jbeil
Byblos Mosque: Near the historical castle of Byblos town, and in the middle of a garden covered with green grass, stands the Ottoman mosque of the town, in the place where the first Muslims built “el-Fateh Mosque” during the reign of the orthodox caliphs. It was built by the Ottoman sultan “Abdul Majid” in 1057AH/1648AC. The date is graved inside the mosque. Later on, it was renewed by the Emir “Yussuf el-Shehab” in 1197AH/1783AC.

A new section was added to the western side in which stands the door of the hexagonal minaret. This section is three steps higher than the main hall in the middle of which there is a dome. Under the dome stands a stone minbar of six steps. One can have access to the mosque by a flight of stairs overlooking the castle of Byblos and its old Suqs, in the quietness of the nature and the gentle breeze of the near sea.

Caza of Aley
Maqam el-Sayed el-Emir Abdullah el-Tanoukhi – Aabey
The Maqam of this savant holy man is located in Aabey town in the province of Aley, on a hill overlooking the Mount and the Coast of Beirut. It contains the mausoleum of the Emir el-Sayed Abdullah el-Tanoukhi and the tomb of his son the Emir Saif ed-Din Abdul Khaleq who died the night of his wedding.

The Emir el-Sayed is one of the greatest holy men of the Druze Islamic sect known for his knowledge, faith, asceticism and religiousness. Because of his perception and his religiousness, he could establish the rules of the religious, moral, and social behavior that distinguish the devout Druzes till today. He composed a lot of literary, religious, legal and linguistic books. He incited the education of children whether boys or girls, as well as he prompted the treatment of good women on an equal level with men. He ordered the building of temples, the renewing of mosques and the performance of collective prayers in the towns. He died in 884AH/1479AC in his town Aabey.

Khalwa or Madrassa Ain el-Shawi – Aabey
It is located in Aabey town near el-Qoliyah el-Dawoudiyah, overlooking Beirut city and its coast. It was built in the beginning of the eighteenth century by el-Sheikh Ahmed Amine ed-Din who endowed the incomes of his properties for the sake of this Khalwa. The Khalwa of Ain el-Shawi is considered to be the second madrasah after madrasah el-Sayed Abdullah el-Tanoukhi considering the number of worshipers and faithfuls visiting it.

El-Maqam el-Sharif – Sharoun
It is located in Sharoun town, in Shamlikh district, in the region of the high mountain joined to Aley Province, overlooking a magnificent valley. It is attributed to the Imam Bahaa ed-Din el-Ta’i el-Samouqi known by “el-Moqtanah”, who was famous for his perception, asceticism and religiousness. He was one of the most important persons who established the Druze sect in the Fatimid age since AH408. One of Shamlikh Khalwas became a Mazar to get the blessings and make vows. It was named el-Maqam “el-Sharif” or Maqam Shamlikh. It is one of the most important worship places for the Druzes where they hold their ritual ceremonies.

Khalwat El-Mounisah
It is located on top of a hill over Aramoun town in Aley Province, overlooking the sea and Beirut city. It was built by el-Sheikh Jamal ed-Din Ben Ismael el-Mehtar known for his asceticism and religiousness in the beginning of the second century of the Hegira.
This Khalwa was restored many times and a big dome was added. Its remains witness how strong its construction was. It is one of the first, biggest and most important Khalwa.

Caza of Chouf
Khalwat El-Zanbaqiyah (Kafarnabrakh)
They are located to the east of Kafarnabrakh town in el-Shouf, in the middle of an oak trees forest and overlooking the valley of the beautiful river of el-Safa and Sannine Mountain. They are composed of many old buildings, some of which are already effaced, and the rest include a prayer hall as well as the mausoleum of their most important faithful sheikh Ahmed el-Dweik.

Khalwat Jernayah
Located on a hill between Deir el-Qamar town and Kfarhim town, they are famous for their unique location overlooking the mountain and the sea at the same time. In the nineteenth century, they witnessed meetings held on national occasions between the Druzes and the Christians. An earthquake destroyed them in 1956, but they were rebuilt. A big number of faithfuls visit them every Friday night to pray and praise God.

Khalwat El-Qataleb
It is an old Khalwa that dates from the fifteenth century. Located on a hill overlooking Baadaran town in el-Shouf, it is surrounded by forest of oak trees and arbutus, and some olive gardens. It is very simple, built according to the oriental Islamic style. Faithfuls use it as a place for worshiping, studying religion and praising God.

Maqam el-Nabi Ayyub
It is located on one of the summits of Niha’s Mountain that is about 1400 meters above the sea level. The Holy Koran mentioned Ayyub in the Anbiya’ Sura (chapter of the prophets in the Holy). He is the symbol of patience and perseverance in obedience to God. God cured him after seven years of disease.

This Maqam of his is large and well known, overlooking the town of Niha and the neighboring villages of el-Shouf. It was rebuilt many times, and buildings, halls and rooms were added in order to seat thousands of visitors and believers who come asking for blessings. Once a year, in the courtyard of its mosque, the Druzes sheikhs gather in order to pray and praise God. The State is officially represented in this gathering.

Deir el-Qamar Mosque
It is located in the square of Deir el-Qamar near the town’s historical buildings, especially the castles of the Ma’niyyin and the Shehabiyyin Emirs, of the AC seventeenth century. It is a perfect model of Mount Lebanon mosques that were built in the reign of the Emir Fakhr ed-Din el-Ma’ni the Second. It is 750 meters above the sea level.

There are a lot of religious places and centers in el-Beqaa, especially the sacred places that people visit in order to approach God and pray in order to have the blessings of the God the Merciful, and profit from the spiritual atmosphere that predominates in these places. The most important of them are:

Caza of Baalbeck
Maqam el-Nabi Yusha’ Ben Noun (peace be upon him)
It is a Maqam to the east of Rasm el-Hadath town on the road of el-Hermel.

Maqam el-Nabi Najjoum
Located east of the village of Tarayya, this sanctuary is formed by an ancient tomb covered with a dome, surrounding a small fountain that keeps the same level of flow during all seasons, summer as winter; its water is inexhaustible in the dry season and even in winter it does not increase, that is why it is considered a blessed water by visitors of this sanctuary.

Maqam el-Nabi Shiit
He is one of Adam’s sons (peace be upon him) and the best of them. He was the one who succeeded his father (peace be upon him). It is said that he was buried in the fields out of the village of Ser’in in the Beqaa. A big town was built around this Maqam as people came to live near it, and thus the town held the name of this Maqam. It contains a mausoleum of about 40 ells. Believers visit it in order to celebrate religious occasions such as the mid of Shaaban (eighth month of the lunar year) and others.

Maqam el-Nabi Suleiman
It is located outside of Younine town to the Southwest. The Nabi Suleiman (the prophet Suleiman) has many miracles about which speak the inhabitants and the neighbors. There’s also a fresh water source at its extremity from which people drink in order to be blessed.

Islamic worship places in the city of Baalbeck:
Maqam el-Sayida Khawla (Mrs Khawla)
She is the daughter of el-Hussein Ali (peace be upon them) whose Maqam and Tomb are located near the historical castle of Baalbek at the southwestern entry of the city. It is said that she was the daughter of the youth master of the Heaven’s residents. She was barely five years old when she fell sick while prisoners of the el-Hussein family were being taken to Baalbek. She died when they got there and was buried near a cypress tree. A dome that was built above her tomb is there till today and a mosque with some halls and two minarets have been built around it.

El-Qal’a Mosque
It is the mosque of Ibrahim el-Khalil according to “Yaqout el-Hamwi” in his book “Mo’jam el-Beldan” (dictionary of the countries). Its mihrab is still standing inside the roman temples of Baalbek. The Muslims built it after they had entered to Baalbek in 15AH/635AC. That’s why it is considered the oldest Islamic site existing till today in Lebanon since the reign of the orthodox caliph “Omar Ben el-Khattab” (may God be pleased with him).

The Great Umayyad Mosque
Built in the first century after the Hegira, during the Umayyad reign, on the remains of a Byzantine church, it is the largest mosque of all Baalbek. It is 60 meters long and 50 meters wide. It contains in the middle 30 columns carried from roman temples neighboring the castle. Some of them are decorated with Corinthian capitals either of granite or of massive stones. The walls of the mosques rise for 8 meters. Its architecture is similar to the Umayyad mosque in Damascus. It includes a courtyard surrounded by porticoes and a square minaret that stands in the courtyard like a war tower. The mosque’s walls hold many inscriptions that are decrees belonging to the Mamluk age. It was left ruined for a long time during the Ottoman and the modern ages. Lately, it has been restored and rehabilitated to perform regular prayers in there.

Ra’s el-Ain Mosque
Known by the name of “Masjid el-Hussein”, this mosque was built in 61AH/681AC above the ruins of an old Phoenician temple, near the spring of Ra’s el-Ain. The stones of the temple were used in building the mosque. Later, the Mamluk sultan el-Zaher Baybars renewed and enlarged it in 676AH/1277AC. It is 50 meters long and 38 meters width. It has 22 columns, distributed in a way that divided the mosque into three mosques inside the main mosque. It has six arches, a huge mihrab, a rocky minbar, 6 gates which stones have been decorated with geometrical lines and designs. A rivulet from the spring of Ra’s el-Ain runs through the main frontal mosque. Two other rocky mihrabs stand in the other two mosques.

Kobbat el-Amjad
It is a small square prayer hall. Its internal side is 6 meters. The king “el-Amjad Bahram Shah” ordered to build it in 596AH/1199AC as stated by the inscription above its mihrab. The mosque was built with stones of different sizes.

El-Hanabelah Mosque
It was there in the AH sixth century/ AC twelfth century. It was restored in the Mamluk age in 682AH/1283AC, during the governorship of el-Mansour Qala’un, as stated in the plaque fixed on the northern side of the mosque. It is proper to the followers of el-Hanbali doctrine that was common in Damascus and Baalbek during the Mamluk age; hence, it was named after them. It is distinguished by its hexagonal minaret standing in the west corner. Inside the mosque, there were a center for the Koran studies and a zawiya for the Sufis.

Zawiyat el-Yunini
It is a cave divided in two rooms sculptured in the rock, under Kobbat el-Amjad. In the first southern room stands the mihrab that is in the middle of its wall. And near the corner lies the grave of el-Sheikh Abdullah el-Yunini who died in 617AH/1219AC, as well as the tombs of a lot of his followers.

Kobbat el-Sa’dine
It is el-Jarkas mosque, located near the northern fence of the castle. It has a decorated door, a mihrab, and above its door is a plaque holding an inscription stating that it was erected in 812AH/1410AC, above the tombs of two Mamluk men of the followers of el-Zaher Barquq. The entry of the dome is decorated with an arch of stone pads that was common in the Mamluk age. The entry is decorated as well at the bottom with embellishments graved on the two sides of the wall. On the four corners of the plaque is graved the emblem of “the Cup”.

El-Nahr Mosque
It was built by the Emir Yunes el-Harfoush in 1028AH/1618AC above the remains of an old mosque, which might be the mosque known by el-Jokendar Mosque. It contains a slab that states the construction date and holds three lines of poetry. The upper corner of its door was decorated with two slabs on which the name “Ali” is graved in a triangle shape. Later, the mosque was renewed in 1327AH/1918AC. It is about 30 meters long and 20 meters wide, with three columns in the middle, surmounted by small simple capitals. Its minaret is hexagonal, standing over a square base as high as the wall of the mosque

El-Saghir Mosque
Belonging to the Ayyubid age, it is adjacent to el-Zohra temple, near Venus temple. It is distinguished by its polygonal minaret, surmounted by a balcony shaded by an umbrella of tiles, itself surmounted by a small polygonal dome. The minaret was built in 638AH/1240AC during the reign of the king el-Saleh Ismael el-Ayyubi. On its door is fixed a plaque stating the construction date. It was restored in 1140AH as stated by the inscription inside a triangle of large sides.

*Other mosques in Baalbek: In Baalbek there are others mosques and Mazars, such as: Mazar el-Sayeda Khawla, Mazar el-Nabi En’am, Sidi Qaisar Mosque, Hay el-Tofailiyah Mosque (Ghafra Mosque), el-Sheikh Mahmoud Mosque, and others.

Cazas of Zahle, West Beqaa and Rashaya
Maqam el-Nabi Ayla
It is the Maqam of a prophet called Ayla in the town named after him near the city of Zahleh, at 10 kilometers of the western foot of the Beqaa plain, on the western chain of Lebanon Mountains. People visit it to ask for help when they face disasters and problems, as he is known for his miracles. They believe that God responds to those who ask him from this Maqam. People also visit it on Sundays and Fridays to ask for blessings and make vows.

Maqam el-Nabi Nouh
In el-Qorq town stands a maqam known as the Maqam of el-Nabi Nouh (peace be upon him). People visit it for blessings in religious occasions and come from everywhere to approach God by the mediation of the owner of this Maqam, though they know very well that he is not the same Nouh (Noah) of the flood. El-Qorq is a town to the north of Zahleh city.

Maqam el-Set Sha’wanah
It is located in the region of Amiq at the foot of el-Barouq Mountain to the East, overlooking the Beqaa plain and el-Sheikh Mount. It is surrounded by a forest of oak trees famous for its fresh air and clean water. It is said that el-Set Sha’wanah was the daughter of a king. She left with her father the life of joys in palaces to live an ascetic life in that region. She was buried in that place where the Mazar was built. It is a simple stone building surmounted by a dome that shades her mausoleum visited by faithfuls from all religions and sects in order to get the blessings and make vows.

Maqam el-Sheikh el-Fadel (Mohamed Abi Hilal)
This Maqam is located in the town of Ain Atah between Rashayah and Hasbayah. It is attributed to el-Sheikh Mohamed Abi Hilal known by el-Sheikh el-Fadel. He’s one of the Druze holy men and one of the most remarkable ascetic savants. He was a contemporary of the Emir Fakhr ed-Din el-Ma’ni the Second (seventeenth century). The Sheikh el-Fadel is considered the owner of a spiritual and intellectual madrasah that is complementary, by its precepts, to the Madrasah of the Emir el-Sayed Abdullah el-Tanoukhi.

*Other mosque in the Beqaa: There are many Maqams (sanctuaries) and Mazars (shrines) so that every single village contains a Maqam or a Mazar of a holy man in all the Beqaa.
There are Maqams and Mazars that are said to belong to prophets, and others to holy men. The truth is that they belong to men who were so good that they could be considered as holy men. All villages and towns of the Beqaa include a Maqam for a prophet or a holy man, such as el-Nabi Sami in Shamastar town, the holy man Ismael in Taria town, el-Nabi Yussuf in Qfardan town, el-Nabi Atrif in the valley of el-Sibat to the east of Brital town, el-Nabi Sreij in el-Kharibah town and el-Nabi Yunus near Shaat town.

Koura and Zgharta Caza
1-El-Baher Mosque
At about 6 kilometers from the south of Tripoli, on the seacoast, stands an old mosque known by el-Baher Mosque (the mosque of the sea). According to the repeated stories of the Qalamoun’s habitants, it dates to more than 800 years ago, as it is stated on a plaque hung on the wall near the minbar, on which are graved three lines saying that it was constructed in 527AH/1132AC, that is during the reign of the crusaders over the coast of el-Sham. It was renewed by el-Sheikh “Ali Monallah el-Baghdadi” who died in 1192AH/1778AC. The mosque is composed of two large cylinders. Its walls are built with sandstones like Tripoli’s mosques. A prominent cornice decorated by geometric designs surrounds the upper end of the exterior wall. A new minaret stands above the mosque. In that mosque, the Imam, the savant el-Sheikh Mohamed Rashid Rida used to isolate himself in order to compose and publish “el-Manar”.

2-Ain el-Jami’ prayer hall
It is located on the seacoast, to the south of el-Baher Mosque. According to the repeated stories of the Qalamoun’s habitants, it dates from the crusader wars period. The Muslims built it at a fountain near which they used to be stationed waiting for the Jihad. Later, the place was transformed to a place for prayer, then to mosque that was called el-Ain Mosque (mosque of the fountain). Its mihrab is still standing in its antecedent façade, and an association has transformed the place to a school for teaching religion.

3-Beshmezine Mosque
Near Beshmezine church, in el-Koura, stands the mosque of the small town, in a quiet district, in the middle of a pine trees forest. The people of the town say that it was built hundreds of years ago, at some tens of meters from the Muslims cemetery where stands a dome on which is fixed a marble plaque holding the name of “Jamal ed-Din Shayha”. It holds the date of “1287”. This name belongs to one of the Emirs stated in the popular biography of the sultan el-Zaher Baybars. As for the date graved, it goes back to two years before the liberation of Tripoli from the Europeans by the sultan el-Mansour Qala’un (1289AC). The mosque was renewed only four years ago. A dome and a huge minaret were erected above it. Its location near the church of the town ensures the good relation between the Muslims and the Christians, and the closeness of living under the belief in One and Only God.

4-Barbar Mosque in I’al
At about 5 kilometers to the east of Zgharta in the province of el-Zawiya, in the quiet I’al, the village relaxing between the olive trees, stands the mosque of “Mustafa Barbar Agha”, the governor of Tripoli, which he built over a hill near his strong fortress in 1230AH/1814AC as it is stated above its door, which is also the date of finishing the construction of the fortress. Near the mosque lies the tomb of “Mustafa Barbar” who ruled the States of Tripoli and Latakiyat el-Arab for about 30 years.

Tripoli
1-The Great Mosque El-Mansouri
It is the largest mosque of Tripoli and Lebanon. It was built at the order of the sultan “el-Ashraf Khalil Ben Qala’un” in 693AH/1294AC in el-Nouri district. The sultan “el-Nasser Mohamed Ben Qala’un” built the porticoes surrounding its exterior courtyard in 715AH/1315AC. It has four doors, two of them in the east side, one in the west side, and one in the north side. This latest is the biggest. It is decorated and holds a historical inscription, as well as it is surmounted by the four-floor-Moroccan-style minaret. The mosque has two mihrabs: a big one and a small one, and a wooden minbar embellished with wonderful geometrical designs, which was built at the orders of the Emir “Shehab ed-Din Qaratay” in the year 726AH/1326AC. In the middle of the mosque’s courtyard, there are an ablution fountain and the prayer hall that is surmounted by a sandstone vault. At the western gate, a defensive tower was erected in order to protect the mosque, and under the western portico stands the “room of the prophetic noble trace”, where a hair of the beard of the prophet, God’s blessing and peace be upon him, is placed and visited by believers in the month of Ramadan (ninth month of the lunar year).

2- Tainal Mosque
At three minutes of walk from “al-Nour” square, at the northern entry of Tripoli, stands the most beautiful and majestic mosque of Lebanon, the mosque of the “Emir Saif ed-Din Tainal el-Hajeb” (el-Hajeb = the Chamberlain). He built it in 736AH/1336AC outside the city in the middle of the gardens, and it is now surrounded by buildings. It consists of a marble courtyard with four rooms where were held the meetings of Tripoli’s cadis (magistrates) during the Mamluk age: Shafiite cadi, Hanafite cadi, Malekite cadi and Hanbalite cadi. The mosque has two prayer halls; the first one is surmounted by a large dome standing on 4 Byzantine Corinthian capitals, over 4 huge granite columns brought from the Pharaonic Egypt. The marble ground of the courtyard is covered with geometric designs. The two prayer halls are separated by a gate that is considered the most beautiful with its decorations, inscriptions and splendor. It competes with the most beautiful gates of the Mamluk Egyptian mosques. As to the second prayer hall, it contains a mihrab, and a wooden minbar that was made by “Mohamed el-Safadi, the master artisan” in 736AH/1336AC.

The minaret of Tainal Mosque is unique in both the Arabic and the Islamic worlds. It contains two stone stairs, one leading to the inside of the mosque and the other one leading to the outside. They are superposed in a way that the visitor entering the mosque does not meet the person who is leaving.
This minaret looks like a castle’s tower or like the “castle” of the chessboard.

3-El-Burtasi Mosque
It is one of the most beautiful mosques and madrasahs in Mamluk Tripoli. It is located in Bab el-Hadid district, on the west bank of the river. One can have access to this mosque from the castle of Tripoli in less than five minutes of walk. It was built by “Isa Ben Omar el-Burtasi el-Qurdi” around the year 710AH/1310AC to be a mosque and a madrasah for those looking for religious education. Its construction combines many architectural features; its Andalusian style minaret stands over a half-dome in a way that its huge construction came out in a miracle that defies the theory of space and weights. Its mihrab is distinguished from all the other mihrabs of Lebanon by the gold mosaics and miniatures that represent a cup from which stick out leafy branches reminding of the façade of the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. This mosque is also characterized by a huge cupola, under which stands the marble ablution fountain.

4-El-Attar Mosque
On the road between “Khan el-Khayyatine” (caravansary of the sewers) and “Suq Haraj” (the auction market) stands the mosque of “Badr ed-Din El-Attar” which he built under the supervision of the senior architect of his time “Abi Bakr Ben el-Bousais el-Baalbaki” around the year 716AH/1316AC. He inscribed his name above the western door. The mosque was later widened and the colorful marble minbar, as well as the eastern door were built in 751AH/1350AC by the master “Mohamed Ben Ibrahim, the architect”. The mosque has a third door in the north side, above which stands its huge minaret. The western door is considered to be the most impressive door of the mosque. It is surmounted by a wonderful square plaque of marble decorated with different ornamentations, miniatures and geometric designs of different colors.

5-El-Tawbah Mosque
It is a reduced reproduction of the Great Mosque el-Mansouri. Located in “el-Dabbaghah” district near khan el-Asqar (soldiers caravansary), this mosque was built at the orders of the sultan el-Nasser “Mohamed Ben Qala’un” around the period in which the porticoes of the Great Mosque were built in 715AH/1315AC. It had an external courtyard with an ablution fountain in the middle that was removed a few years ago, but which dome is still standing on four pillars. The minaret stands at the northeastern corner of the portico. The mosque has two doors: eastern and northern. It also contains two inscriptions: the first one is at the southern entry of the portico, graved during the reign of the Mamluk sultan “el-Mou’ayyed Sheikh el-Mahmoudi” in 817AH/1413AC, and the second dates back from the Ottoman period, during the reign of Tripoli’s governor “Hussein Ben Yussuf Pasha Saifa”. It states the date of its reconstruction as 1021AH/1613AC.

6-Sidi Abdel Wahed Mosque
It is the smallest mosque of Mamluk Tripoli, to the east of “Suq el-Attarine” (perfumers market), built by “Abdul Wahed el-Meknasi” from Morocco in 705AH/1305AC. He graved the construction date on a plaque with Moroccan naksh (graved writing). This mosque is famous for its small and little elevated minaret, as well as for its simple dome surmounting its Moroccan style mihrab. It consisted of a small prayer hall and an external courtyard with an ablution fountain in the middle that was removed about 25 years ago. Later on, the courtyard was roofed and added to the prayer hall. On the right of the mosque’s entry stands the Maqam of a Sufi, “Abdul Salam el-Meshishi”. People until today put branches of Myrtus Communis (kind of plant people put on tombs) at the window overlooking the road. Above the mosque, there is a corridor with several rooms in which Moroccans live up to now.

7-Arghoun Shah Mosque
In the district of “Saff el-Balat”, on the road leading to the main cemetery of Tripoli in “Bab el-Ramel”, the mosque of the Emir “Arghoun Shah” was built during the reign of this latest between 796-800ah/1393-1400ac. It is distinguished by its cylindrical minaret that is different from all the other square Mamluk minarets. It stands above the eastern door holding the inscription of a decree issued by the sultan “Qaytbay” in 880ah/1475ac. The mosque has a western door too.

8-El-Tahham Mosque
In the quarter of “Kahwet el-Hettah” (café of the quarter) in “el-Haddadine” district, stands the Tahhan Mosque above a series of shops. To have access to this mosque, the visitor should climb stairs. Neither its founder nor its foundation date are exactly known, even though It is a Mamluk style as shown by its minaret made of wonderful decorations and splendid architecture, though It is not that high. In the courtyard of the mosque, there are four huge granite pillars surmounted by four Corinthian capitals holding the dome like in Tainal Mosque.

9-El-Ouwaysiyah Mosque
At the southern foot of Tripoli’s castle, on a hill known by “Suq el-Samaq” (fish market), in Bab el-Hadid district, stands the Ouwaysiyah Mosque named after a Sufi sheikh called “Ouways el-Roumi”. It was originally a small Zawiya during the Mamluk age; then it was transformed to a mosque by the Na’ib (governor) of Tripoli and its castle, the Emir “Haydara” in 941AH/1535AC. He registered that date above the cylindrical Ottoman style minaret. The dome of this mosque is considered to be the largest dome in Tripoli.

10-El-Sanjaq Mosque
Near the gate of “el-Tabbaneh” that opens on “Suq el-Qameh” (wheat market), “Mahmoud Beck el-Sanjaq” built his mosque in 1027AH/1617AC and wrote his waqfiya (foundation act) in 1029AH/1619AC. The mosque’s minaret was destroyed by a thunderbolt and rebuilt by “Obeid el-Ish” in 1295AH/1879AC. This is why it came out to be similar to the minarets of Ottoman Istanbul.

11-El-Mu’allaq Mosque
Located at about 100 meters from the Tahham Mosque to the south, this mosque was built by the Emir “Mahmoud Lutfi el-Za’im” on top of a passageway in 963AH/1556AC, hence its name “el-Mu’allaq” which means the “Hanging” as the visitor can have access to it by a flight of stairs built in 969AH/1562AC according to the inscription graved above. The minaret is octagonal adjoined by a small dome above the door. In the eastern side of the mosque is a garden in which lies the tomb of the Emir and stands his deserted castle.

12-El-Houjayjiyah Mosque
It is located in the Suq el-Nahhasine (market of the coppersmiths). Its founder is unknown. It is likely to date from the crusader age. The Muslims had transformed its tower to a minaret similar to the one of the Great Mosque but minimized. Its upper top was removed at an unknown date.

13-El-Baha’ Mosque
It is located in the alley of Sidi Abdul Wahed Mosque. Its foundation date is unknown. It had been ruined, so the merchant “Ahmed Ben Barawanah” destroyed it and rebuilt it in 1163AH/1750AC, and later, the sheikh “Abdullah el-Bahaa el-Halabi” renewed it in 1234AH/1819AC. It includes a cemetery for the sheikhs of el-Nakshabandiya (Sufi sect) and has no minaret.

14-Hamidi el-Balad Mosque
In el-Nasarah district, to the west of khan el-Asqar, stands an old mosque called “Al-Toffahi”. Its foundation date is unknown. It was deserted and ruined during the Ottoman period, and then vivified at the orders of the sultan ”Abdul Hamid the Second” in 1310AH/1812AC. Hence, it was named “Hamidi el-Balad” as there was another mosque holding his name in el-Mina’.

15-Mosques of the castle
Inside the castle of Tripoli, there are three mosques. The first is octagonal and belongs to the Fatimid age of the AH fifth/AC eleventh century, and near it are the remains of a minaret. The second is the Great Mosque of the castle, built by “Mustafa Agha Ibn Iskandar Pasha el-Khanjarli”, the governor of Tripoli during the reign of the Ottoman sultan “Selim the First” in 924AH/1518AC. The third is the mosque of “Mustafa Agha Barbar”, the governor of Tripoli. He built it in 1216AH/1802AC.

16-Madrasah el-Nasiriyah
It is in front of el-Mashhad and el-Shamsiyah madrasahs. It was built by the sultan el-Naser “Hasan Ben Mohamed Ben Qala’un” between 755-762AH/1352-1359AC, who graved his emblem above the door. Its eastern façade was decorated with piebald stones.

17-Madrasah el-Shamsiyah
It is the oldest Mamluk madrasah in Tripoli, built by the magistrate “Shams ed-Din Ahmed Ben Atiyah el-Iskandari” to the left of the main door of the mosque El-Mansouri, in 697AH/1298AC. It has a vault made of pads above its exterior door, and above it stands the magistrate’s house, which is considered the oldest Mamluk house in Lebanon.

18-Madrasah el-Qartawiyah
It is the largest and most splendid religious madrasah in Tripoli and in all Lebanon. It is adjoined to the east of the Great Mosque el-Mansouri.
Built by the emir “Qaratay” in 726AH/1326AC, its northern door is considered the most sumptuous door of the Mamluk architecture in Egypt and in el-Sham. The façade of its southern wall is one of the richest walls in inscriptions. Eight decrees issued by Mamluk sultans are graved on this wall, as well as Koranic inscriptions and the names of the Prophet, the Orthodox Caliphs and the Companions of the Prophet promised the Heaven, with the emblem of the Emir, and a lot of wonderful ornamentations.

19-Madrasah el-Tawashiyah
It is located in the middle of Suq el-Saghah (market of the jewelers). Its gate is one of the most beautiful gates with its geometrical designs shaped like rays, its muqarnas, its ornamentations, its andalusian style window and its vault made of pads above its mihrab. It was built in the eighth century AH/fourteenth century AC.

20-Madrasah el-Set Hosn
Near el-Nasiriyah, it was built by Mrs. “Hosn”, the sister of Tripoli’s governor, the Emir “Asandamor el-Qurji” in order to bury her husband the Emir “Qotlubaq” when he died in 716AH/1316AC. She registered her waqfs (endowments) above the door.

21-Madrasah el-Nouriyah
It is located at the beginning of Suq el-Saghah, in front of Hammam el-Nouri. Built by the emir “Sonkor Ben Abdullah el-Nouri” between 705-710AH/1305-1310AC, it contains one of the most splendid mihrabs of Tripoli. It is decorated with miniatures and marble embellishments. The Emir “Tormish Ben Abdullah el-Dawdar” built a tomb in the eastern side of this madrasah in 800AH/1398AC and engraved his emblem, “the butler”, on the iron enclosure of its window.

22-Madrasah el-Saqraqia
Across the street from madrasah el-Khatouniyah was built the madrasah el-Saqraqia by the Emir “Saif ed-Din Aqturuq el-Hajeb” (the Chamberlain) before 760AH/1358AC. Its façade is decorated with a long bar on which is graved its waqfiya (foundation act) with Koranic inscription, as well as the Emir’s emblem, “The Sword”. Inside this madrasah is a mausoleum surmounted by a lobed dome, ornamented with Koranic inscription graved with the decorated Mamluk calligraphy, and an embellished plaque from the outside.

23-Madrasah el-Ajamiyah
It is located under the gate of “el-Mahaterah” stair that leads to the castle. It was built by “Mohamed el-Succar” in 766AH/1364AC as it is registered above its door. Its façade overlooking the stair holds Koranic inscription graved above its windows. A marble mausoleum holding Koranic inscription lies inside.

24-Madrasah el-Khatouniyah
It is located near Arghun Shah Mosque. Built by the Emir “Izzeddin Aydamur el-Ashrafi”, his wife bequeathed to be buried there and graved her waqfiya on the façade of the door in 773AH/1371AC. The madrasah itself was built in 775AH/1373AC. On its façade was graved the emblem of the butler, “The Cup”.

25-Madrasah el-Qadiriyah
Near the hammam of “Izzeddin” stands the madrasah el-Qadiriyah. It is one of the largest madrasahs of Mamluk Tripoli after el-Qartawiyah. It has two doors, eastern and western. The eastern door is the main one and it is decorated with ornamentations. To its right stands the room of a mausoleum on which is graved the date of 769AH/1367AC.

26-Madrasah el-Zahiriyah
It is located on the road of “Taht el-Sibat” (under the archway) between the castle and el-Bortasi Mosque. It was built in 799AH/1397AC by the Emir “Taghri Baramsh el-Zahiri” to be a cemetery for his two sons. Above its door is a plaque stating that date and holding the emblem of the butler, “The Cup”.

27-Madrasah El-Homsi
Built by the Emir “Alam ed-Din Sanjar el-Homsi” a little after 724AH/1324AC, it is located in the middle of “el-Terbi’a” district.

28-The High Great Mosque
It is in the middle of the old el-Mina’ city. It was built over some stores at an unknown time during the Mamluk age. It was a small mosque to which one could have access by a flight of stairs. Then it was renewed and enlarged by “Abi Bakr Ben Mohamed Agha” in 1135AH/1722AC as it is graved on a plaque inside the ablution room.

29-Madrasah el-Mashhad
It is across from el-Chamsiyah. Its founder is unknown. Its door is one of the most beautiful Mamluk doors. Inside the madrasah, there are plastery and marble ornamentations, as well as Koranic inscriptions and the emblem of the butler, “The Cup”. Its façade is embellished with lines of piebald stones.

30-Madrasah el-Mardiniyah
Located in “Suq el-Islam” (market of the Islam), it was built by the Emir “Ala’ ed-Din Aydghomosh el-Mardani” above a series of stores in 707AH/1307AC. One can have access to this madrasah by a flight of stairs. Above its door is a white marble plaque on which the construction date and the emblem of “The Cup” are graved.

*Other mosques in Tripoli: In Tripoli, there are other old mosques and madrasahs from the Mamluk and Ottoman ages. We mention: el-Khanqah Mosque, and the following madrasahs: el-Mahmoudiyah, el-Rifa’iyah, el-Qasimiyah, el-Cadi Oglo, el-Shouhada, el-Habbaq, el-Sanjaq (inside el-Ouwaysiyah Mosque), el-Shaleh, el-Sabbagh, el-Qarimiyah, el-Dahhan, el-Jawish, el-Sabsabiyah, el-Beshnatiyah, Takkiya el-Mawlawiyah, Takkiya el-Qadiriyah, el-Rajbiyah, el-Dabousiyah, el-Namel, el-Hizam, el-Afghaniyah.
In el-Mina’: El-Hamidi Mosque, Borj Brasbay Mosque, Madrasah el-Arrif.

Al Minieh Al Donieh
1-El-Baddawi Mosque (in el-Baddawi)
At five kilometers from north of Tripoli, on the seacoast, stands the suburb of el-Baddawi, famous for its old historical pool that was admired by the European travelers, because of the big numbers of sacred colorful fish it contained. It was a recreation park visited by Tripoli’s habitants, neighbors and visitors from everywhere. Near the pool, the Mamluk Na’ib of the sultanate, the Emir “Damerdash el-Mohamadi”, built a zawiya above the mausoleum between 790-796AH/1388-1394AC. The historian “el-Sakhawi” mentioned that it was built on a roaring pool then it was widened in later periods to become the big mosque it is now. The old Mamluk wall is still standing till now.

2-El-Nabi Yusha’ Mosque and Maqam
On the western foot of Terbol Mountain overlooking the coastal town of el-Menyeh from the eastern side, which was named Leopards Mountain by the Holland traveler “Berkhard” in 631AH/1253AC, inside a rocky cave that is deeper than 15 meters and about one meter and a half of height, lies a mausoleum of 12 feet attributed to el-Nabi Yusha’ (prophet Yusha’). It is visited by worshipers of the people of the book: the Jews, the Christians and the Muslims, as some believe that it is “Yusha’ Ben Noun” mentioned in the Exodus, while some others believe that it is “Yousha’” the son of the prophet “Moses” (peace be upon him). What makes it more complicated is the presence of an old plaque on which the traveler “Abdul Ghani el-Nabulsi” graved in 1105AH/1693AC the following: “This is the tomb of the poor servant of God el-Sheikh Yousha’. It was built by the sultan el-Moktafi el-Salehi in Tripoli in 684AH”. This statement cannot be true as there was no sultan in Tripoli that year holding that name. On the contrary, Tripoli was still in the hand of the Europeans at that period. The Ottoman governor of Tripoli “el-Wazir Mohamad Pasha el-Qurji” built a sepulcher above the tomb in 1175AH/1763AC on which he graved two lines of poetry. Above the tomb, there is a stone tube across which runs the water falling from the roof of the rock. It is also said: if the water of the village diminishes, the water runs out from this tube by the strength of God the greatest. At the entry of the tomb, there is small hall prayer with a mihrab, and above the hall prayer and the cave stands a big mosque to which one can have access by a flight of steps. It dates from the Ottoman period. Tourists and visitors visit the place to ask for the blessings.

Akkar Caza
In the province of Akkar, where the high mountains vie in glory with their summits touching the sky, and the clouds wash their woods and versants, spread the cities, the villages and the towns that embrace the historical mosques standing on a river bank, in a wide plain or over a charming hill.

1-El-Sheikh Ayash Mosque
At the furthest point on the northern Lebanese borders, near the Syrian borders, in the village of el-Sheikh Ayash, stands an old mosque surmounted by a ribbed dome lying over an octagonal base in the middle of the praying hall. Its exact construction date is unknown.

2-El-Bireh Mosque
On a wide land in el-Bireh town, near the old government house that was likely used as a fortress by the crusaders, stands el-Bireh mosque in the shadow of a big leafy tree. A half dome lies in its center on an octagonal base. Its minaret stands in the northern corner of the prayer hall, and above the mosque’s door is a plaque on which two lines of poetry are graved and under which lies some decorations inside which is graved the foundation date, 1300AH/1882AC. The mosque was built with the black volcano’s stones that exist in abundance in those lands.

3-Qobbet Bshamra Mosque
In the wide plain of Akkar, near the seacoast, and near el-Qolay’at Airport, lies a small town known as Qobbet Bshamra, embracing an old mosque that contains a rectangular mausoleum of about ten meters, and a mihrab standing in its southern side. The mausoleum is known by “Shahid el-Bahr” (the martyr of the sea). It is an old mosque of the Mamluk age as shows its dome.

4-Madrasah el-Hamidiyah
The town of Mashha that is located in the south east of Halba, between el-Qobayat town and Berqayel town, is proud of the presence, on its land, of the Madrasah el-Hamidiyah and its huge library, built in 1311AH/1893AC at the order of the sultan Abdul Hamid the Second, to be a cultural and intellectual center, as well as a mosque for worshiping, after that “Osman Pasha Ben Mohamed Beck”, one of Akkar’s Emirs, had strove in order to achieve that. The portal of the madrasah is decorated with Ottoman monograms that hold the signature of the sultan Abdul Hamid, with some lines of poetry under which is graved the construction date.

5-El-Borj Mosque
In the village of el-Borj, in el-Joumeh region, the governor of Tripoli and Akkar “Ali Pasha el-Asaad el-Mere’bi” built a mosque inside a strong fortress in the huge joined governmental house. It consists of a huge hall with sandstone vaults on its sides similar to those existing in Tripoli’s mosques. In the middle of the hall, there is an immense pillar on the left of which stands the mosque’s door which vault is surmounted by a plaque on which are graved three lines stating the construction date, 1224AH/1810AC.

6-El-Zaher Baybars Mosque
In the town of Akkar el-Atiqa that was named after “Akkar el-Qouda’i” during the reign of “Marwan Ben el-Hakam” (64-65AH/684-685AC), stands the historical fort of Akkar that was built by the sultan el-Zaher Baybars around 670AH/1272AC, inside which he built a mosque and graved his emblem, “the lion”, on both the fort and the mosque. The fort was destroyed during the fight between Al Saifa (the Family Saifa), the governors of Akkar and Tripoli, and the Emir Fakhr ed-Din el-Ma’ni the Second who destroyed the fort and its surroundings and transferred its stones to Deir el-Qamar. The mosque was neglected since then and was about to become effaced. It is 24 kilometers from Halba and stands on a rocky hill between the two deeps valleys of Akkar el-Qadima that are the branches of the river el-Estouwan. The mosque’s mihrab is standing till today in the district of el-Tekkiyah, near the fort with the dome surmounting it. The inscription on the mihrab states that the mosque was renewed during the Ottoman period by the Emir of the province of Hamah at an unknown time.

7-Tekkiyat Akkar el-Atiqa
It was built by the governor of Tripoli and Akkar, the Emir “Yussuf Pasha Saifa” near the fort of Akkar and Qala’un Mosque, to be similar to the Tekkiyat “el-Darawish el-Mawlawiyah”. He graved his name and the construction date on a plaque fixed above the door’s vault and decorated by an embellishment of iris in 1007AH/1598AC. It has a wide vault, and it is built with alternating white and black stones (piebald) and is embraced by a cornice deeply set in the wall.

8-Qalaoun Mosque
Near the pre-mentioned mosque of the sultan el-Zaher Baybars stand the remains of another Mamluk mosque in el-Tekkiyah district in Akkar el-Atiqa. It was built by the sultan “el-Mansour Qala’un” as shown by the inscription graved on a stone plaque and stating the following: “This blessed mosque was renewed during the reign of our master the sultan, the learned, the just, the invader, the warrior, the supporter, the triumphant, the supported, Seif ed-Din wa Dunya (the sword of the land and the religion) Qala’un el-Salehi”.

Other Mosques in the North
In the North Province, there are a lot of historical places for Islamic worship that are subject to destruction and effacement like Qaftoun Mosque that was built in the mamluk age, Daraya Mosque in the high and barren mountains of el-Daniyah, which belongs to the Fatimid age, Mazar el-Nabi Jacob in el-Daniyah near Assoun and Beit Jida, Ottoman Mosque of Syr, and others.

The historical Islamic sites in south of Lebanon vary between mosques, Mashhads, and Maqams that can be attributed to different historical periods. Among the most important sites we can find:

Cazas of Sidon and Tyre
The Great Mosque el-Omari – Saida
It was named after the second orthodox caliph “Omar Ben el-Khattab”. It is one of the most beautiful architectural buildings of the thirteenth century, and the widest mosque of Sidon. It is located to the south west of the region, near the terrestrial castle of Sidon, over a hill overlooking the sea. Its architecture is a mixture between the two styles: Crusader and Mamluk. It was subject to many restorations and enlargements during the Ottoman period and the modern age.

El-Baher Mosque- Saida
Travelers from Sidon port used to pray in this mosque, which is located in front of the maritime castle. It belongs to the Mamluk age, and it is the only one remaining in Sidon from that period. It was built by “Hasan Ben Sawah” (775AH/1373AC) as stated by the graved plaque above the entry. A new minaret was recently added.

El-Barrani Mosque- Saida
It was built by the Emir “Fakhr ed-Din el-Ma’ni the Second” (1634AH) outside the fences of the old Sidon; therefore, it was known by el-Barrani (the external). It is near the seacoast, and it is considered a lively model of the Islamic architecture of the Ottoman age. It has three domes, and a room that includes the corpses of the two Emirs: “Melhem” and “Saif ed-Din”, the sons of the Emir “Fakhr ed-Din el-Ma’ni”. Its southern wall is made with piebald stones of the following colors: brown, red, black and white; its minaret is octagonal.

Qotaish Mosque
This mosque combines a lot of the Islamic architectural arts. Its designs are apparent in all its sections. It is about 100 meters from the south of el-Qikha mosque. It was built at the expenses of el-Sheikh “Ali Qotaish” (1001AH/1592AC) inside the old Sidon. Plant shapes such as flowers, roses, wheatears and jugs decorate its dome, while piebald stones of alternating white and black marble decorate the mihrab. The mosque includes the tomb of its founder.

Bab el-Saray Mosque- Saida
It is one of the oldest standing mosques in Sidon. Its construction dates from the period when the Europeans occupied the city (598AH/1201AC) according to the plaque above the northern entry. Its minaret rises above the roof for about 20 meters. It is distinguished by its large dome above the eastern part of the hall. It was known as “el-Mohtaseb Mosque”. It is called today el-Saray Mosque because of its nearness to the Saray (government house) built by the Emir Fakhr ed-Din el-Ma’ni the Second.

El-Qikhya Mosque- Saida
It is an example of the Islamic architecture of the Ottoman period. Located in the old Sidon, it is surrounded by crossroads from the East and Bahr el-Abed alley from the West. It was built by “Mustafa el-Qatkhada” in 1033AH/1624AC. It rises above the level of the road, and it is decorated with six domes, muqarnas, and a marble minbar colored in white and blue, with four columns decorated with different geometrical designs.

Bahaa Eddine Al Hariri Mosque – Saida
At the northern entrance to Saida is the mosque of Bahaa Eddine Al Hariri near the East Boulevard. Of a particularly distinctive architectural style in Lebanon and the Middle East, it renews the main features of the mosques architecture. The adopted architectural style is the Ottoman architecture where a dome covers the central prayer hall entirely. The mosque consists of prayer squares, and the center is covered by a dome resting on eight octagonal peripherals pillars.

The mosque has three entries:
A northern one for normal daily access and joins the path west by an external path that crosses the front garden ;
Second one used for access during festivities and holidays.
the third entrance on the west side .
The mosque covers an area of 7500 m2 and can accommodate up to 5,000 worshipers in two interior rooms for women and men.

El-Imam Hasan el-Asqari Mosque – El-Sarafand
It is one of the oldest mosques in the South. It is said that it was built in 184AH/800AC. It is composed of two sections: old and new. The old part is composed of a room surmounted by a dome, with four mihrabs at the four sides, which is a unique phenomenon. Above the entry is a plaque that identifies the name of the founder as “Ali Ben Sa’d ed-Din Fakhr ed-Din”.

Tyre Mosque -Tyre
In the middle of the old city that recalls the scent of the history, “Abbas el-Mohamed”, the governor of Tyre, built the Tyre Mosque in 1180AH/1766AC. It was strong, with a high minaret. The magistrate of Tyre, “Abdullah el-Maghrebi” was buried there in 1267AH. The mosque was renewed for the last time in 1997AC.

* In the South also, there are Mazars and Maqams that are attributed to some prophets and holy men, like: Maqam el-Nabi Yahya in the south east of Sidon, Maqam Abi Nakhleh in the old Sidon, Maqam Sharhabil Ben Hasna in “el-Hababiyah” in the east of Sidon, Maqam Abi Zarr in el-Sarafand town, Maqam el-Nabi Omran to the east of el-Qalilah town, near Tyre, Mashhad el-Nabi Monzer in Mays el-Jabal, Mashhad el-Ma’shouk near Tyre, Mashhad el-Ouwayzi above Qfarkilla village, and Mashhad Jamal el-Hosn in Hadatha.
In Sidon, there are Zawiyat Al el-Baba known by el-Sabsabi, el-Zawiya el-Rifa’iyah or el-Daqouriyah, and el-Zawiya el-Qadiriyah.

Nabatiyeh
Maqam el-Nabi Sho’aib
It is one of three Mazars holding the same name. The first one is in the Jordanian city Ajloun, the second one is in Hettine, to the north of Palestine, and the third one is in the region of el-Teem Valley, in the province of Rashayah, in el-Sfainah town that is about five kilometers from el-Kafir town.
The region is known for its rich ancient monuments belonging to the period preceding Christ. This Maqam had a distinguished spiritual and human importance through history.

Khalwat El-Bayyadah
They are located on a hill overlooking Hasbayah town, Palestine, Marje’youn plain and Beqaa plain. El-Sheikh Jamal ed-Din el-Hamra built one of them more than three hundred years ago in order to use it for worship, religious studies and spiritual meditation. They were called el-Bayadah (whitening) Khalwas because they whiten the heart, purify it from evils and hostilities, and fill it with faith and love instead, seeing a good omen in the people who visit these Khalwas from Druze worshipers willing to study religion, meditate and practice spiritual exercise. These Khalwas are composed of about 50 simple buildings inhabited by students looking for religion education. They consist, together with the big assembly hall, a kind of spiritual university. Nearby, lie the tombs of some holy men who spent their life praying and worshiping in this place.

El-Nabi Mosque of el-Nabatiyeh el-Fawqa
It is the greatest and the most important mosque of el-Nabatiyeh el-Fawqa. Its dome shows how old is this building which belongs to the Mamluk age.

El-Nabatiyeh el-Tahta
It is located in the middle of el-Nabatiyeh el-Tahta. Built at the end of the sixteenth century, it was renewed more than once.

Bleyda Mosque – Bleyda
It is one of the most historical mosques of Amel Mount. It is old and its founder is unknown. It has the shape of a cellar that stands, though its wideness, on one pillar. Its architecture provokes astonishment and admiration as its beginning is fine, then its gets gradually wider in a wonderful way. It was ruined and restored many times.

Honine Mosque – Honine
Built by el-Sheikh “Qabalan el-Hasan” from Al Alam el-Saghir (the family Alam el-Saghir) in 1166AH/1753AC during the reign of the Ottomans. It is a strong building to which a high minaret was added in 1187AH/1773AC.

Shaqra Mosque – Shaqra
Founded by Mr. “Abu el-Hasan Moussa el-Amine” in 1182AH/1768AH, it is large with a minaret that looks more like a tower and does nOt exceed its roof. It was restored in 1350AH/1931AC.

Bent Jbeil Mosque
It is one of the greatest mosques of Amel Mount built during the Ottoman reign. It was renewed at the end of the nineteenth century.

*Other mosques in Amel Mount: In addition to the pre-mentioned mosques, there are a lot of historical mosques in the different cities, and towns of Amel Mount: the Mosque of: Tebnine, Shhour, Jowaya, Teir Dabba, el-Khyam, Jaba’, el-Babeliyah, Ansar, and Ansariyah.

Nature reserves consist of an area of land or sea which bears an important ecological aspect and a beautiful landscape. They represent a cultural tourist and charming natural wealth devoted to protect and preserve the natural resources, especially the biological diversity. Nature reserves also represent the various ecological systems in Lebanon and constitute the main foundations of rural development policy. Besides, they are among the most important preventive means against industrial transformations, environmental deterioration, demographic growth, building expansion and the risk of wasting an important part of the country’s natural heritage together with its national wealth. That means nature reserves are considered as live witness to our national heritage, and therefore should be safeguarded for the sake of public interest and the next generations.

Lebanon includes thirteen nature reserves which constitute 3% the country’s total area. They represent a very rich biological diversity that covers around 370 species of residing and migrating birds, and over 2000 species of plants are typically Lebanese and some of them are sorted as medicinal, fragrant and nutritious. These are also around 35 species of mammals including wolves, hyenas, wildcats, porcupines and squirrels.
These nature reserves are founded and monitored under the auspices of the Ministry of Environment.

These nature reserves of Lebanon contain most of the remaining cedar forests in the country of the cedar.
The cedar forests in and out of the Lebanese nature reserves have an area of 2000 hectares distributed over nearly 12 forests and groupings among which “ Al Kamouah ” (nature protect site ), “ Ehden ” (nature reserve ), “ Bcharreh ” (nature reserve ), “ Tannourine ” (nature reserve), “ Hadath El Jebbeh” “ Jaj ”(nature reserve ), “ Ain Zhalta, Bmuhray, Barouk, Maaser El Chouf ”(nature reserve ). Plans are currently underway to join the other reserves to the national network of nature reserves in Lebanon.

The thirteen nature reserves from North to South Lebanon are:
1-Ehden Forest Nature Reserve (Horsh Ehden)
2-The Palm Islands Park and Natural reserve
3-Tannourine Cedars Forest Nature reserve
4-Mshaa Chnanir Nature Reserve
5-Bentael Nature Reserve-Jbeil
6-Yammouneh Nature reserve
7-Al- Shouf Cedar Reserve
8-Tyre Coast Nature Reserve
9-Wadi Hujeir Reserve
10-Nature reserves of “ Ramia, Kafra, Beit Leef and Debel ”, established in 2011.

In addition to nature reserves, there are 28 protected forests and 17 natural sites in Lebanon.

According to international classifications, there are 3 biosphere reserves in Lebanon which were sorted by the UNESCO during its initiative “Man and the Biosphere”. The first biosphere reserve is Al- Shouf Cedar Reserve, nominated in the year 2005, it includes the Cedars of the “ Chouf ” and the swamp of “ Ammiq ”. Later in 2007, the mountain of “Al Rihan” site was also classified as a biosphere reserve, and finally the site of “Jabal Moussa” (Moses Mount) was nominated in 2008. Moreover, there are 4 sites in Lebanon of Ramsar classification for wet lands, that bear an international importance as a refuge for aquatic birds : “ Ras Chaqaa ”, “ Ammiq ” swamp, the two nature reserves of “ Palm Islands” and “Tyre ” which also bear a Mediterranean importance, in addition to 15 important sites for birds, and 5 others that are classified in the World Heritage List, among which the “ Qadisha Valley ” that is listed as a world cultural landscape.

The protected areas, especially the nature reserves play an important role in the safeguard of natural resources, namely bio–diversity. They are also considered as a prominent factor in the local and rural development. Actually, they attract a great number of visitors who carry out eco – tourist activities, thus contributing in raising the income of local societies who live in the vital surroundings of nature reserves.

The local committees of nature reserves and their working teams undertake the management of eco–tourism activities, in coordination and cooperation with a group of partners on the national level, especially the eco-tour operators and eco–tourism firms among others. On the local level, coordination is maintained by the owners of guest houses who offer accommodation and meals to the tourists, in addition to local guides who accompany the visitors and provide them with valuable information, besides ensuring their safety.

With 225 km of Mediterranean coastline extending the entire length of the country from north to south, you’ll find plenty of sun and sand in Lebanon. Beach season in Lebanon stretches from April to October, with sunny, dry weather and warm temperatures (20-32°C / 68-90°F) for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. However, even in the winter season you will find plenty of activities to take advantage of along Lebanon’s scenic shore.

The coastline in Lebanon alternates from sandy to rocky beaches, offering an interesting variety of terrain and seaside activities. Along the coast north of Beirut, the mountains descend sharply to the Mediterranean Sea, offering spectacular vistas of rocky coastline and colorful sunsets over the water. In the south, fragrant and colorful citrus groves and banana trees line the coast, giving way to some of the country’s best-preserved and remote sandy beaches.

Lebanon’s coastline is not just for sun worshippers. Nature enthusiasts can explore the unique Mediterranean ecosystem at the Palm Islands Reserve, located 5km off the coast near Tripoli. The reserve is a prime location for observing Lebanon’s coastal flora and fauna, including sea turtles, seals, and over 300 species of migratory birds. The well-preserved beaches at the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve are also known for their rich marine and freshwater habitats.

Adventure enthusiasts will find diving, waterskiing, sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, paragliding, and much more along Lebanon’s coast. Snorkelers can explore the magnificent submerged Phoenician and Roman ruins off the coast of the city of Sour (Tyre).

Traditional beach enthusiasts have several options to choose from in Lebanon. For those seeking full amenities and comfort, luxury resorts and beach clubs offer private beach access, swimming pools, water skiing, diving, boat rentals, nighttime entertainment, restaurants, and accommodations. Good, inexpensive public beaches with clean water and basic facilities are located in Jbail (Byblos), Chikka (near Tripoli), Batroun, and south of Sour (Tyre).

Lebanon is an important stopping-off point for migratory birds along African-Eurasian migration paths, creating a wealth of bird watching opportunities, especially during the spring and fall. The peak bird watching seasons are mid-September through mid-October, and early March to mid-April.

Due to Lebanon’s diverse landscape, bird watchers are rewarded with a wide variety of species (over 300), including the rare chance to see magnificent but threatened birds such as the Imperial Eagle and the Sociable Lapwing. In addition, there are plentiful opportunities to see more common birds such as raptors, harriers, water birds, and others, like the Syrian Serin and the Palestinian Songbird.

There are three key areas for bird watchers to visit. The coastal reserves, including the Palm Islands Nature Reserve and the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, are home to numerous sea and water birds. The mountains, with sites such as the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve and the Al-Shouf Cedar Reserve, are known for eagles, vultures, and quails. Further inland, the marshes and plains of the Békaa Valley, such as the Aammiq Wetland, also offer plentiful bird watching opportunities. The southern village of Ibl Es-Saqi standing on the edge of a valley that function as a unique corridor passage of migrating birds is also home to a small bird sanctuary.
Trained guides are available in the nature reserves, and ecotour operators run bird watching hikes and treks through many of these beautiful areas.

More and more camping options are emerging in Lebanon, and many existing sites are simply spectacular. Campers can set up their tents overlooking the sea north of Jbail (Byblos) and walk down from their site to the Mediterranean for a swim and some snorkeling. Alternatively, campers can retire in the Adonis Valley, home of the legendary frolicking of Adonis and Aphrodite of Greek mythology.

Lebanon offers numerous campsites and ecolodges that have fully supported facilities catering to groups and families. These include platform tents or bungalow-style lodging, meals, and organized recreational activities such as hikes and mountain bike rides.

For those looking for a more remote nature experience, backcountry camping is allowed on any public land that is not in a Nature Reserve or Protected Area, but it is advisable to ask for the local authority approval, like Mayor’s permission. In these areas, camping is often part of an organized, guided excursion led by one of the country’s many ecotour operators. Camping can be a base from which to launch daytrips to nearby towns and historic attractions, for hikes in surrounding natural areas, or simply as a quiet respite from the bustle of Beirut city life.

A mountainous and rocky country composed primarily of limestone, Lebanon offers exciting opportunities for caving. Over 400 caves, caverns, and sinkholes are scattered throughout the country, offering something for everyone, from the expert spelunker to the casual tourist.

Most caves are concentrated in the Mount Lebanon region, stretching from north to south in the center of the country. The most popular and “touristy” of caves include the Jeita Grotto, with its huge caverns and underground lakes, and the enormous and intricate Afqa Grotto, source of the Adonis River where legend has it Adonis and Aphrodite exchanged their first kiss.

For the more adventurous tourists and experienced spelunkers, there are many other caving options that require guides and equipment. The Roueiss Grotto, for example, is a 5km long labyrinthine cave with an underground lake, large halls, and unique crystalline formations.

Lebanon is also home to stunning vertical caves – called “sinkholes” or “potholes” – that are some of the deepest in the Middle East (up to 602 meters). These sinkholes are explored using ropes and climbing equipment, rappelling down into the hole and then climbing back up. Lebanon’s largest sinkholes are concentrated in the northern Mount Lebanon region, especially near Laqlouq and Tannourine.

Lebanon’s rugged mountains, hills, and valleys, and its spectacular scenery immersed in history, make for some truly unique mountain biking opportunities. Cyclists can ride up Qornet Es-Saouda (Lebanon’s highest peak) with views of the Békaa Valley to the east, Syria to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. You can also ride through rugged mountainous terrain and Cedar groves in the Horsh Ehden and Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserves, and at the Cedars ski resort. The high plateaus of the Mount Lebanon Range are covered with extensive trail networks, offering technically challenging terrain for seasoned cyclists.

For those looking for more relaxed cycling, the Békaa Valley and the coastal regions have many opportunities both on and off-road. Many small villages have small shops offering bike rentals for independent on-road biking.

Most mountain biking is done with a guided tour, as many mountain trails are not well marked. Several tour operators run guided cycling tours catering to all levels, and include bicycle rental, lodging, food, insurance, an experienced guide, and transportation to and from the trailhead. Some clubs also organize Beirut Bike Tours.

Varied terrain, scenic vistas, and historic environs combine to create unique hiking and trekking opportunities throughout Lebanon. Popular areas for hikes include the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve near Tripoli, and the Al-Shouf Cedar Reserve, both of which offer good and extensive trail systems. Other areas with spectacular scenery and unique historical and cultural attractions include the Qadisha Valley, Makmel Park, and the remote Aakkar region in the North.

For a quintessential Lebanese experience, you can wander through the Adonis Valley, a ruggedly cut gorge sprinkled with historic ruins that is the site of Adonis and Aphrodite’s love story in Greek mythology. There are many trekking clubs and tour operators that run guided outings throughout Lebanon, ranging from leisurely day hikes to longer multi-day treks.

Lebanon is one of the few places in the Middle East to offer a broad range of mountain climbing activities, from relatively easy summit climbs and technical peak ascents, to bouldering and adventure climbing. Limestone mountains, beautiful scenery, and easily accessible climbs welcome climbers to Lebanon.

The Aaquora, Tannourine, and Laqlouq regions have rock faces rated from 3 to 8 (on the French rating system), many of which are already bolted. There are also many interesting and technically challenging summits for mountaineering, including the 2,814 meter Mount Hermon and Mount Makmel, whose northeast face is an extremely technical climb.

Very few countries offer such great climbing located near such interesting cultural and historical attractions as Lebanon. For experienced climbers with their own equipment, topographic maps of climbing routes can be obtained from one of the country’s ecotour operators. Ecotour operators also organize a variety of guided climbing and mountaineering trips throughout the country, accessible for relatively fit travelers of all skill levels.

With six ski resorts catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, and with kilometers of backcountry Nordic cross-country and snowshoe trails waiting to be explored, Lebanon has something for everyone.

Each of the ski resorts boasts its own local flavor. For example, The Cedars Ski Resort (2,000-3,086m), near Mount Makmel (2,800m), is located on the highest range and offers the most scenic landscapes. Mzaar-Kfardebian (1,830-2,465m) is the best resort in terms of world-class infrastructure and facilities. Other resorts, such as Laqlouq (1,650-1,920m) and Qanat Bakiche (1,910-2,050m), are known for their family-oriented, friendly atmosphere. Faqra-Kfar Dibiane (1,735-1,980m) and Zaarour (1,700-2,000m) are private ski resorts, with special “peak” times reserved for members.

If you are seeking to evade the ski crowds, many outdoor adventure tour operators take groups on cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips. Lebanon’s high plateaus are tailor-made for such Nordic pursuits.

With 225km of Mediterranean coastline, as well as numerous rivers throughout the country, Lebanon offers many salt- and fresh-water sporting activities. Lebanon’s rocky coastline and underwater terrain make it a unique destination for snorkeling and diving. A 600m deep underwater valley runs from Beirut to the Bay of Jounié, creating interesting rocky gorges and underwater cliffs and dropoffs for divers to explore. Another popular diving area is at Chikka (near Tripoli), which offers some of the best marine landscapes and flora and fauna off the Lebanese coast.

Exploring the underwater ruins near Jbail (Byblos), Saida (Sidon), and Sour (Tyre) is another popular activity for divers and snorkelers; however, you are required to obtain a special permit to dive near archaeological sites. There are also several world-class shipwreck sites, including “le Souffleur” (a French submarine from World War II) near Khaldé, for underwater exploration.

Lebanon’s coastline is lined with many private beach resorts and diving clubs offering facilities and equipment rentals for diving and snorkeling, as well as a variety of other water activities, including water skiing, windsurfing, and sailing. Nitrox equipment is available for technical deep-water dives.

While water sports in Lebanon are centered on the coast, there are also a number of freshwater activities, including rafting, kayaking, and canyoning. These are concentrated on the rivers of Nahr el Assi in Northern Bekaa, Nahr Litani, in the South, and Nahr Ibrahim, In Jbail, which typically swell as the spring weather melts the mountain snows, creating great deep, fast water conditions. Many ecotour operators offer guided rafting and water sport activities on Lebanon’s rivers.