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The Memory Tree: A Living Memorial

A poignant memorial in Beirut honoring the victims of the Great Famine of Mount Lebanon and symbolizing Lebanese resilience.

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The Memory Tree in Beirut stands as a poignant reminder of the Great Famine of Mount Lebanon during World War I. This sculpted monument commemorates the lives lost and symbolizes the resilience of the Lebanese people. The tree's leaves are inscribed with the words of writers who lived through the famine, offering a space for reflection and remembrance.

A brief summary to The Memory Tree

Local tips

  • Take a moment to read the inscriptions on the leaves of the tree to understand the impact of the famine through the words of those who lived through it.
  • Reflect on the history and significance of the monument to appreciate the resilience of the Lebanese people.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby cultural sites in Beirut to deepen your understanding of the city's history and art scene.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Memory Tree is located in Beirut and is accessible by walking from many central locations. From the Université Saint-Joseph, walk approximately 5-10 minutes. Use the VGJ6+JV5 coordinates to orient yourself. The tree is located in a public space and is easily accessible.

  • Public Transport

    Beirut has a public transportation system consisting of buses and service taxis. You can take a bus or service taxi to a location near the Université Saint-Joseph and walk the remaining distance. Bus fares are around 75,000 LBP. Service taxis within Beirut cost approximately 150,000 LBP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Beirut. A typical taxi ride within the city during the daytime costs around €6 (approximately 600,000 LBP). Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, as many taxis do not use meters. App-based taxi services like CTaxi are also available and may offer fixed, distance-based fares.

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Discover more about The Memory Tree

The Memory Tree is a powerful symbol of Lebanon's enduring spirit, nestled in the heart of Beirut. This historical landmark serves as a reminder of a dark chapter in the nation's history, commemorating the lives lost during the Great Famine of Mount Lebanon between 1915 and 1918. This famine, a devastating consequence of World War I, resulted in the death of more than half the Lebanese population. Created by Lebanese street artist Yazan Halwani, the Memory Tree is eight meters high and made of painted steel. The tree's leaves are inscribed with the words of writers contemporary with the famine, such as Gibran Khalil Gibran, whose poem “Dead Are My People” was dedicated to the famine's victims. The artwork serves as a symbolic cemetery and a place for remembrance and healing. Visiting the Memory Tree offers a unique and enriching experience, allowing one to engage with the artistic expressions of grief, hope, and unity that characterize the Lebanese people's journey. It stands as a testament to survival and endurance, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the stories intertwined with this sacred site.

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