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Beiteddine Palace: A Lebanese Masterpiece

Discover Lebanon's architectural gem: a 19th-century palace with stunning courtyards, mosaics, and gardens in the heart of the Chouf Mountains.

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Nestled in the Chouf Mountains, Beiteddine Palace is a stunning example of 19th-century Lebanese architecture, showcasing a blend of Ottoman and European influences. Built by Emir Bashir Shihab II, the palace complex features grand courtyards, opulent reception rooms, and serene gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into Lebanon's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Beiteddine Palace

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven stone surfaces and exploring the palace gardens.
  • Visit during the Beiteddine Festival in July and August for music, dance, and theater performances.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Deir el Qamar and Moussa Castle for a full-day experience.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The most common way to reach Beiteddine Palace is by car. From Beirut, take the Beirut-Damascus Highway, then follow signs towards Deir El Qamar and Beiteddine. The drive is approximately 45 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the palace. Expect to pay around 5,000-10,000 LBP for parking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Careem or Uber are available in Beirut. A taxi from Beirut to Beiteddine Palace costs approximately $55-$65 USD and takes around 35 minutes. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    It is possible to reach Beiteddine by bus from Beirut. Take a bus from the Cola Transport Hub in Beirut to Boq'ata. From Boq'ata, you can take a taxi or walk to Beiteddine. The bus fare is around 4,000 LBP, and a taxi from Boq'ata to Beiteddine costs around 2,000 LBP per person. Check locally for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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Discover more about Beiteddine Palace

Beiteddine Palace, a jewel amidst the cedars of Lebanon, stands as a testament to the country's rich history and architectural prowess. Located approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Beirut in the Chouf Mountains, this 19th-century palace is a masterpiece of Lebanese architecture, showcasing a blend of Ottoman, Arab, and European influences. Construction of the palace began in 1788 and continued for three decades under the commission of Emir Bashir Shihab II, who sought to create a residence that reflected his power and vision. The palace, whose name translates to 'House of Faith', was built on the site of a Druze hermitage. Designed with the help of an Italian architect, the palace incorporates Damascene and Italian Baroque styles. Legend says that the Emir ordered the architect's hands to be cut off after completion to prevent him from replicating its beauty. The palace complex consists of three main courtyards: Al-Midan, Dar Al Wousta, and Dar Al Harim. Al-Midan, the outer courtyard, once served as a gathering place for horsemen and visitors. Dar Al Wousta, the central section, features beautiful arcades, fountains, and rooms adorned with carved cedar wood and Arabic calligraphy. Dar Al Harim, the private apartments, includes a hammam (Turkish bath) and intricately decorated living spaces. The palace also houses a museum with Byzantine mosaics and ethnographic artifacts. Throughout its history, Beiteddine Palace has served various purposes. It was the Emir's residence until 1840, then a government residence under Ottoman rule, and later an administrative office during the French Mandate. Since 1943, it has been the summer residence of the Lebanese President. Despite damage during the Israeli invasion, the palace has been restored and remains a symbol of Lebanese cultural heritage. Today, visitors can explore the palace's stunning architecture, wander through its terraced gardens, and immerse themselves in Lebanon's royal past. The annual Beiteddine Festival, held within the palace grounds, attracts art and music lovers from around the world.

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