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Monastery of Mar Lishaa: A Sanctuary in the Holy Valley

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of the Monastery of Mar Lishaa in Lebanon's sacred Qadisha Valley.

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Nestled in the Qadisha Valley, the Monastery of Mar Lishaa (Saint Elisha) is a historic and visually stunning monastic complex shared by Maronite and Barefoot Carmelite orders. With origins dating back to the 14th century, the monastery offers a glimpse into Lebanon's rich Christian heritage and provides a tranquil escape amidst dramatic natural beauty.

A brief summary to Monastery of Mar Lishaa

  • 62V3+MMP, Bsharri, LB

Local tips

  • Dress modestly to respect the sanctity of the monastery.
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Ask locals at the monastery for hiking recommendations in the area.
  • Be prepared for challenging road conditions when driving into the valley.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Bsharri town center, head southwest on the main road (Lebanon 51) towards Qadisha Valley. Follow this road for about 5 km until you reach the intersection near the Qadisha Valley entrance. Turn right and follow the signs towards Monastery of Mar Lishaa. After approximately 3 km, you will see a sign indicating the monastery. Follow this road, which may be steep and winding, for another 1 km until you reach the parking area near the monastery. Parking is available near the monastery.

  • Public Transport

    From Qadisha Grotto, take a bus heading to Bsharri. This typically takes 20-30 minutes. Once in Bsharri, take a taxi to the Monastery of Mar Lishaa, which is about 4 kilometers from the town center. The taxi fare should be around 5,000-10,000 LBP.

  • Walking

    From Bsharri town center, head east. Follow the road signs that lead to the monastery. The walk is approximately 4 kilometers and will take around 1 hour. Be prepared for a steep ascent and wear comfortable shoes.

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Discover more about Monastery of Mar Lishaa

The Monastery of Mar Lishaa, also known as St. Elisha Monastery, is a testament to centuries of Christian monastic life in the Qadisha Valley. This 'Holy Valley,' a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has served as a refuge for monks escaping persecution since the 4th century. The monastery, first mentioned in the 14th century, is shared by both the Maronite solitary order and the Barefoot Carmelite order. The complex features a communal church with four chapels carved directly into the rock face, along with small cells, a refectory, and offices. Inside, religious art and artifacts narrate stories of faith and devotion. The natural light filtering into the cave church, combined with candlelight, creates a unique and serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the monastery's chapels and prayer rooms, taking in the intricate stonework and stunning views of the surrounding valley. The monastery provides a peaceful ambiance enhanced by the sounds of nature. Hiking trails around the monastery offer opportunities to further explore the Qadisha Valley's natural beauty. There are actually two Mar Lishaa monasteries: a newer one that houses the current monks and an older one located further down the valley. A paved road leads directly to the older monastery.

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