Our Lady of Zahle and the Bekaa
A towering Marian shrine in Zahlé offering panoramic views of the Bekaa Valley, architectural beauty, and a serene spiritual experience.
Our Lady of Zahle and the Bekaa is a prominent Marian shrine located in Zahlé, in the Beqaa Valley of Lebanon. In 1958, Bishop Euthym, driven by his devotion to the Virgin Mary, decided to construct a shrine honoring her on a hill overlooking Zahlé and the Bekaa Valley. The shrine features a ten-meter-high bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, created by Italian artist Pierroti, which rests atop a 54-meter high tower, crowning the hill known as Tel Chiha. Work on the shrine was delayed due to the Lebanese Civil War, but a grand inauguration was held in May 2005 after restoration work was completed. Today, an elevator transports pilgrims and tourists to a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the red-roofed city and the valley. The tower's base houses a small chapel with seating for approximately 100 people. Our Lady of Zahle provides a combination of architectural beauty and stunning views. The intricately designed church stands as a testament to craftsmanship, while the vista of Zahlé below enhances its appeal. The shrine has a serene atmosphere, inviting contemplation and reflection. Visitors can explore the surrounding Bekaa Valley, known for its vineyards and agricultural landscapes. The shrine is a pilgrimage site and a cultural gem, offering an unforgettable experience for those seeking spiritual solace and cultural exploration.
Local tips
- Take the elevator to the top of the tower for the best panoramic views of Zahlé and the Bekaa Valley.
- Visit the small chapel at the base of the tower for a moment of quiet reflection.
- Explore the surrounding Bekaa Valley, known for its vineyards and wineries.
A brief summary to Lady Of Zahle
- RWR2+CVQ, Zahlé, LB
- +9618822220
Getting There
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Public Transport
From anywhere in Zahlé, you can use the newly introduced eco-friendly hybrid buses to reach Our Lady of Zahle. These buses connect major neighborhoods in Zahlé. Check local routes for the nearest stop. Bus fares are around LL70,000 per ride. Alternatively, a day ticket costs LL150,000.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Zahlé. A short taxi ride to Our Lady of Zahle from the city center will typically cost around $5 to $10, depending on the distance and traffic. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Ride-hailing services like CTaxi also operate in Zahlé.
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Walking
If you are already near the city center, walking to Our Lady of Zahle is a viable option. The shrine is visible from many parts of Zahlé. From the Zahlé roundabout, head southwest. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes, offering a chance to see the city.
