Saint George Maronite Cathedral: A Symbol of Faith and Resilience
Discover the spiritual heart of Beirut at Saint George Maronite Cathedral, a symbol of resilience and architectural beauty rooted in history.
Saint George Maronite Cathedral is the cathedral of the Maronite Catholic Archeparchy of Beirut, standing as a prominent religious and historical landmark in the heart of the city. Its construction, which began in 1884 and concluded in 1894, was inspired by the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, showcasing a Neoclassical facade, interior, and plan designed by Italian architect Giuseppe Maggiore. The cathedral was built on the site of an earlier church dating back to 1755, which served the Maronite community. The cathedral's interior features a nave and two lateral aisles separated by rows of columns. The nave is adorned with a coffered ceiling with gilded and a double wooden structure, covered with golden leaves on a beige background, while the walls are decorated with stucco and marble. Above the main altar is a canopy with four columns. The cathedral also holds significance as the place where Pope John Paul II visited in 1997. Throughout its history, Saint George Maronite Cathedral has faced numerous challenges. It was heavily damaged during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990), suffering plunder and defacement. Restoration efforts began in 1997, and the cathedral was re-inaugurated in April 2000, regaining its original Renaissance cruciform shape. Significant archaeological remains, including a Hellenistic structure and part of the Roman Decumanus Maximus colonnaded street, were discovered and preserved beneath the forecourt. In 2016, a new campanile was inaugurated, standing 72 meters high. The cathedral also sustained damage during the Beirut explosions on August 4, 2020. Today, Saint George Maronite Cathedral stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural identity for the Maronite community in Beirut. It welcomes visitors to admire its architecture, explore its history, and experience its serene atmosphere.
Local tips
- Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
- Check the schedule for religious services or special events that may affect visiting hours.
- Take time to explore the archaeological remains beneath the forecourt, which reveal layers of Beirut's history.
- Visit nearby attractions such as the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and the Roman Baths to enhance your experience in the Beirut Central District.
- Explore the cathedral's surroundings, where you can find charming cafes and vibrant streets that reflect the city's lively culture.
A brief summary to Saint George Maronite Cathedral
- VGW4+343, Beirut, LB
- +9611981191
Getting There
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Walking
From Martyrs' Square in downtown Beirut, head south towards Rue de l'Indépendance. Continue straight until you reach Rue Minet El Hosn. Turn left onto Rue Minet El Hosn and walk until you reach the intersection with Rue de la Paix. The Saint George Maronite Cathedral will be located at the end of this street on your right. The walk is relatively short and allows you to take in the atmosphere of the city center.
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Public Transport
Beirut does not have a metro or train service, but several bus lines run through the city and stop near the cathedral. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option from your location. Alternatively, 'service' taxis, shared taxis that can be hailed on the street, are a common and affordable way to get around the city. Ask to be dropped off at the Saint George Maronite Cathedral. A short trip by bus or service taxi typically costs around LBP 9990 (€6).
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut and offer a convenient way to reach the cathedral. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as many taxis do not have meters. For a short trip within the city, expect to pay around LBP 9990 (€6) during the daytime. App-based taxi services like CTaxi are also available and may offer fixed per-kilometer fares. Parking near the cathedral can be challenging, so a taxi might be the best option.
