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The Gesture: A Memorial to the Beirut Port Blast

A towering sculpture at Beirut Port, commemorating the victims of the 2020 explosion and symbolizing hope and resilience.

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The Gesture is a large-scale sculpture in Beirut, created by Nadim Karam as a memorial to the devastating August 4, 2020, port explosion. Constructed from the scrap metal of wrecked hangars retrieved from the port, it stands as a symbol of solidarity and hope for the city.

A brief summary to The Gesture - Memorial 04 August 2020 Blast

Local tips

  • Reflect on the memorial's significance as a symbol of Beirut's resilience and the ongoing pursuit of justice for the victims of the 2020 port explosion.
  • Consider the mixed reactions the sculpture has received, with some seeing it as a tribute and others believing justice should come first.
  • Take time to appreciate the sculpture's construction from the wreckage of the port, symbolizing the city's scars and the potential for renewal.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Gesture is located at the Beirut Port. From areas immediately surrounding the port, such as Gemmayzeh or Mar Mikhael, walking is a viable option. Navigate towards the port area, keeping the sea to your west. Be aware of ongoing construction and adjust your route accordingly.

  • Public Transport

    Buses and service taxis (shared taxis) can drop you off near the port area. From the Charles Helou bus station, it's a short walk to the port. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single bus or service taxi fare within Beirut typically costs around LBP 20,000 - 50,000 depending on distance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Beirut. Simply request a ride to the Beirut Port (مرفأ بيروت). Be mindful of traffic, especially during peak hours. A short taxi ride from downtown Beirut to the port might cost approximately LBP 100,000 - 200,000, depending on traffic and the specific location.

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Discover more about The Gesture - Memorial 04 August 2020 Blast

The Gesture is a poignant memorial located at the site of the Beirut Port explosion, which occurred on August 4, 2020. This towering sculpture, the creation of Lebanese artist Nadim Karam, serves as a tribute to the victims of the blast and a symbol of the city's resilience. The sculpture is constructed from the wreckage of the port, incorporating scrap metal from destroyed hangars. Inaugurated on August 2, 2021, almost exactly a year after the explosion, the memorial represents a "giant made of ashes" embodying the scars of the city and its people. Karam describes it as a representation of the Lebanese people's will to persevere and seek justice. The Gesture also aims to foster solidarity and hope in the face of immense loss. The artwork has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a powerful symbol of remembrance and others expressing that justice should precede commemoration. Despite the controversy, The Gesture stands as a prominent landmark at the port, inviting reflection on the tragic event and the ongoing journey of healing and recovery in Beirut.

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