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Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral: A Testament to Beirut's Resilience

Discover Beirut's oldest church, a symbol of resilience, with stunning Byzantine architecture and a crypt museum showcasing centuries of history.

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Located in the heart of Beirut, the Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral is the city's oldest extant church, a symbol of resilience and a testament to the enduring Greek Orthodox community. Built atop the ruins of the ancient Anastasis Cathedral, it showcases a blend of architectural styles and a rich history spanning centuries.

A brief summary to Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral

  • Monday 8 am-3 am
  • Tuesday 8 am-3 am
  • Wednesday 8 am-3 am
  • Thursday 8 am-3 am
  • Friday 8 am-3 am

Local tips

  • Explore the crypt museum beneath the cathedral to discover the archaeological remains of previous churches on the site.
  • Take time to admire the intricate frescoes and Byzantine-style architecture inside the cathedral.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting; shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Visit nearby Nejmeh Square and other historical sites in the area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral is located in Nejmeh Square, a central point in Beirut. From most locations in downtown Beirut, the cathedral is easily accessible by foot. ориентируйтесь на Clock Tower или Парламент. The cathedral is situated near the মোহাম্মদ আল-আমিন মসজিদ.

  • Public Transport

    Beirut's public transportation system consists of buses and shared taxis. While there are no official bus stops, you can flag down a bus along its route. A shared taxi ('service') is a cheaper alternative to a private taxi. Agree on the price before you get in. From Charles Helou station, you can take a bus or service to downtown Beirut and walk to the cathedral.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Beirut. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, as many taxis do not have meters. A standard trip within the city should cost around 600,000 LBP. From Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport, a taxi to the city center will cost around 17€.

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Discover more about Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral

The Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral stands as a beacon of faith and history in the heart of Beirut. This iconic landmark, located near Nejmeh Square, is the seat of the Greek Orthodox Metropolitan bishop of Beirut and the city's oldest functioning church. Its story is deeply intertwined with the history of Beirut, reflecting both its triumphs and its trials. The cathedral's origins trace back to the 5th century when the Anastasis Cathedral was first built on this site by Bishop Efstathius. This original church bordered the auditoria of Beirut's Roman law school, influencing the reconciliation of Roman law and Christian teachings. The Anastasis Cathedral was destroyed in 551 AD by a massive earthquake. A new cathedral was built in the 12th century, but it too suffered damage from an earthquake in 1759. The current structure was constructed in 1772, with final modifications completed in 1910, including the addition of a vaulted portico and the relocation of the bell tower. Throughout the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990), the cathedral was heavily damaged, shelled, burned, and looted. However, it has since been restored, reopening its doors in December 2003. Archaeological excavations during the restoration revealed a wealth of stratified structures, including intricate mosaics from the 4th century, which are now integrated into the cathedral's floor layout and showcased in the crypt museum that opened in 2011. The cathedral's architecture reflects a rectangular plan, approximately 30 meters long by 20 meters wide. The nave, subdivided into five bays and three aisles, features impressive sandstone piers and a barrel-vaulted ceiling. Light filters through the upper windows, illuminating the ornate frescoes that adorn the ceiling. The interior also features three altar spaces and a half-vaulted painted dome above the central apse. A visit to the Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral offers a unique glimpse into Beirut's past and present. It is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of the city.

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