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The Silk Museum: A Lebanese Heritage

Explore Lebanon's silk heritage at the Silk Museum in Bsous, a journey through the history and artistry of silk production.

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The Silk Museum in Bsous, Lebanon, is a tribute to the country's silk industry, which thrived until the mid-20th century. Housed in a former silk factory, the museum showcases the complete silk-making process, from silkworms to finished products, within a charming, vintage setting.

A brief summary to The Silk Museum - Bsous

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Take advantage of guided tours to gain deeper insights into the exhibits and silk-making process.
  • Check the museum's website or call ahead to confirm the opening dates, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Beirut, take the Beirut-Damascus Highway. Exit towards Aley and follow the signs to Bsous. The museum is located just below the village of Bsous. Free public parking is available at the museum. Note that the road leading to the museum is winding.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available from Beirut to the Silk Museum in Bsous. A one-way trip from Beirut will cost approximately $20-30 USD, depending on traffic and the specific location in Beirut. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about The Silk Museum - Bsous

Nestled in the Aley district of Mount Lebanon, approximately 15 kilometers east of Beirut, The Silk Museum in Bsous offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era. The museum is housed in a former silk factory, originally built by the Fayad family and operational from 1901 to 1954. This 'kerkhana,' a Turkish term for silk factory, stands as Lebanon's sole silk museum, a testament to an industry that once formed the backbone of the Lebanese economy. In 1973, George and Alexandra Asseily acquired the property and began its restoration, transforming it into a museum that opened in 2000. The museum vividly illustrates the 1,500-year history of silk production in Lebanon, an industry that faded with the closure of the last silk mill in the 1970s. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing every stage of silk production, from the cultivation of mulberry trees and the breeding of silkworms to the spinning and weaving of silk threads. The museum also displays vintage boxes used to transport silkworm eggs, old photographs of silkworm breeders, and traditional looms. The museum's setting amidst olive groves, stone terraces, and gardens enhances the visitor experience. The two-story building also features a boutique shop selling eco-products and silk attire. The Silk Museum is open seasonally, typically from May to October, and offers guided tours in multiple languages.

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