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St. Nicolas Stairs: Beirut's Artistic Ascent

Ascend into Beirut's vibrant art scene at St. Nicolas Stairs, a cultural landmark connecting history, art, and community in the heart of the city.

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The St. Nicolas Stairs, also known as Escalier de l'Art, is a vibrant public stairway in Beirut connecting the Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael districts. Adorned with colorful murals and street art, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking a taste of Beirut's artistic soul.

A brief summary to St. Nicolas Stairs

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Explore the nearby cafes and restaurants for authentic Lebanese cuisine.
  • Take your time to enjoy the street art and murals along the stairs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the stairs can be steep and uneven in places.
  • Consider visiting during the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife of the area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Gouraud Street in Gemmayzeh, walk towards the eastern end. The St. Nicolas Stairs will be on your left, marked by colorful murals. From Sursock Street, walk towards the Sursock Museum; the stairs will be on your right. The climb can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Public Transport

    Beirut has a public transport system consisting of buses and service taxis. From major transport hubs like Charles Helou station or Cola, take a bus or service taxi towards Gemmayzeh or Achrafieh. Ask to be dropped off near Gouraud Street or the Sursock Museum, from where you can walk to the stairs. Bus fares typically cost around 75,000 LBP. Service taxis within Beirut cost around 150,000 LBP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Beirut. A short taxi ride within the city center to St. Nicolas Stairs will cost approximately 600,000 LBP. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about St. Nicolas Stairs

The St. Nicolas Stairs, also called L'Escalier de Saint-Nicolas or L'Escalier de l'Art, is a prominent landmark in Beirut's Achrafieh district. These stairs serve as a vital pedestrian link between Rue Gouraud in Gemmayzeh and Rue Sursock, offering a scenic uphill route. With 125 steps spanning 500 meters, it is considered the longest stairway in the Middle East. Originally constructed in the 19th century, the St. Nicolas Stairs gained prominence as an open-air art exhibition venue in 1973, hosting art events twice a year. This tradition led to its alternative name, Escalier Saint-Nicolas des Arts, reflecting its role in the Gemmayze art community. The vibrant colors of the staircases, adorned with artistic murals and graffiti, create a visually stunning backdrop. Located near key cultural sites like the Sursock Museum and the Greek Orthodox Archbishopric of Beirut, the stairs attract numerous tourists. The surrounding area features a mix of traditional and contemporary architecture, adding to its allure. In the evenings, the stairs come alive with the sounds of laughter and music, as locals gather to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. While the celebrated art festival is no longer held, the space continues to host community events and exhibitions.

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