Piscine Aley: A Historic Swimming Spot
Experience a blend of history and leisure at Piscine Aley, a landmark swimming pool in the heart of Aley, Lebanon.
Piscine Aley is a public swimming pool in Aley, Lebanon, with a storied past. Designed by architect Toufic Dleikan in 1932, it was a summertime destination for the rich and famous, hosting concerts, conferences, swimming events, and even movies. Performers like Om Kalthoum, Farid el Atrache, Asmahan, and Sabah graced its stage, making it a hub of entertainment and culture. In its heyday, Piscine Aley, along with the Grand Sofar Hotel's Casino, was one of the few such establishments in Lebanon. However, tragedy struck in 1953 when a fire damaged much of the structure. It was rebuilt and continued to operate into the 1970s. In 1957, Casino du Liban was granted an exclusive gaming license, preventing Piscine Aley from offering gambling services. Today, Piscine Aley operates as a public swimming pool, retaining its original name and offering a place for families and individuals to cool off during the summer months. While it may not have recovered its former glory, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many Lebanese as a reminder of Aley's golden age. The pool is also near the artistic symposiums in the Ras el Jabal neighborhood, which contain artistic sculptures performed in the beginning of the century by a big number of Lebanese and international artists that added a cultural charm to the beauty of Aley.
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
- Check for special events or performances that may be taking place.
- Bring sunscreen and swimwear for a day of fun in the sun.
- Explore the nearby Aley Souk for local shopping and dining.
A brief summary to Piscine Aley
- RJ53+W4G, Aley, LB
Getting There
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Taxi
From Beirut, a taxi to Piscine Aley is a direct option. Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $30-40 for the trip. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
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Car
Driving from Beirut to Piscine Aley is straightforward. Take the Beirut-Damascus highway, and Aley is a short drive uphill. The journey is approximately 19 km and takes about 15 minutes. Parking is available near Piscine Aley, but availability may be limited during peak season. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around LBP 5,000 per hour.
