Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque: A Byblos Landmark
Discover the Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque in Byblos: a blend of Ottoman architecture and Islamic heritage in one of the world's oldest cities.
The Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque is a prominent historical landmark in Byblos, Lebanon, reflecting the city's rich tapestry of cultures. Byblos, considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, boasts a history spanning over 7,000 years, with influences from Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, and Ottoman civilizations. The mosque, named after Ottoman Sultan Abdul Majid I, is an emblem of religious architecture and Islamic culture within this ancient setting. Located in the heart of Byblos Old Town, the mosque features a traditional design characterized by a prominent minaret and ornate decorations inspired by Ottoman architectural styles. Intricate patterns and calligraphy adorn the walls, creating an atmosphere of reverence and tranquility. The mosque is not only a place of worship but also a point of interest for those seeking to understand Lebanon's diverse religious landscape. The mosque's history is intertwined with the broader history of Byblos, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's old town is a mosaic of historical remnants, including the Byblos Castle, ancient ruins, and traditional souks. The Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque is thought to have been built on the site of an older mosque. The structure dates back to 1648 and was renovated in 1783 by Emir Youssef Chéhab, yet it carries the name of the 19th-century Ottoman Sultan Abdel Majid.
Local tips
- Dress respectfully when visiting the mosque; avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Byblos Old Town to explore the city's rich history.
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and experience the mosque's serene atmosphere.
A brief summary to Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque
- 4JCW+9F7, Byblos, LB
- +96176975787
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From Byblos Castle, walk south on the Street of the Old Souk. Continue for approximately 500 meters until you reach the intersection with the main road (Beirut-Tripoli highway). Cross the road carefully, and the Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque will be on your right, a short walk away. There is no cost for this approach.
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Public Transport
Take LCC Bus 6 from Cola in Beirut, or buses from Charles Helou or Dora. Ask the driver to drop you off at the highway bus shelter in Byblos. From there, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the mosque. The bus fare ranges from 100,000 to 350,000 L.L. A short taxi ride from the highway to the mosque will cost approximately 12.5 USD.
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Taxi
From anywhere in Byblos Old Town, a taxi ride to the Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque is readily available. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through a ride-hailing app. A typical short taxi ride within Byblos costs around 12.5 USD for 5km.
