Moussa Castle: A Testament to One Man's Dream
Discover Moussa Castle in Lebanon's Chouf Mountains: A unique medieval-style castle showcasing Lebanese history, culture, and one man's extraordinary vision.
Nestled between Deir el Qamar and Beiteddine in the Chouf region, Moussa Castle stands as a personal monument to Moussa Abdel Karim Al Maamari's lifelong dream. Construction began in 1962 and continued for six decades, with Moussa handcrafting each stone to create his vision. The castle is filled with life-sized wax figures depicting traditional Lebanese scenes, offering a window into the country's cultural and social history. The castle features a museum of ancient weapons, displaying around 18,000 pieces, and Moussa's personal workshop with the tools he used to build the castle. Visitors can explore chambers, passageways, and climb to the highest point for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Moussa Castle is more than a historical monument; it's a deeply personal project reflecting the dedication and creativity of one man, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore Lebanese life. The castle operates daily, providing ample time to explore its many features. Guided tours are available, offering deeper insights into the castle's history and the stories behind its construction. The combination of architectural beauty, historical significance, and natural splendor makes Moussa Castle a must-visit destination.
Local tips
- Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather to explore both the castle and the surrounding Chouf Mountains.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Beiteddine Palace and Deir el Qamar for a comprehensive historical tour of the region.
- Allow ample time to explore the castle's many rooms, wax figure displays, and the ancient weapons museum.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about Moussa's life, his dream, and the historical context of the castle.
A brief summary to Moussa Castle
- Damour Beit El Dine Road, LB
- +9615500106
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From Beirut, take the southern highway towards Sidon. Turn right at the Beit Eddine exit to ascend into the Chouf Mountains, passing through Kfarheem and Deir el Qamar. Follow the signs for Moussa Castle. The drive is approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking is available at the castle entrance.
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Public Transport
Take a bus from Charles Helou Bus Station in Beirut towards Damour. Purchase a ticket at the counter or directly from the driver. The bus ride takes about 30-45 minutes. From Damour, take a taxi or walk along Damour Beit El Dine Road for approximately 20-30 minutes to reach Moussa Castle. A taxi from Damour to the castle should cost around 10,000 to 20,000 LBP.
