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Moussa Castle: A Lebanese Vision in Stone

Discover Moussa Castle: A testament to Lebanese heritage, showcasing a lifetime dream in stone near Deir el Qamar.

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Moussa Castle, located near Deir el Qamar, is the extraordinary creation of Moussa Abdel Karim Al Maamari, who single-handedly built this medieval-style castle over 60 years. Filled with wax figures depicting Lebanese life, antique weapons, and his personal story, the castle is a testament to one man's dream and a unique cultural experience.

A brief summary to Moussa Castle

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or autumn for pleasant weather to explore both the castle and its surroundings.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Beiteddine Palace and Deir el Qamar for a full day of exploration.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the castle and its exhibits.
  • Check the official website or call ahead for holiday hours.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Moussa Castle is located off the Damour Beit El Dine Road. From Beirut, take the highway south towards Damour. After Damour, continue on the Damour Beit El Dine Road, following signs for Deir el Qamar and Beiteddine. The castle will be on your right. Parking is available near the castle entrance. Note that parking might be limited during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Moussa Castle via public transport from Beirut, take a bus or service taxi (shared taxi) to Damour. Service taxis can be found in areas like Hamra or Gemmayzeh. The fare for a service taxi is approximately 10,000 to 15,000 LBP. From Damour, you can either take another service taxi towards Beit El Dine or walk along Damour Beit El Dine Road for about 20-30 minutes to reach the castle. Confirm the final fare with the taxi driver before starting your ride.

Unlock the Best of Moussa Castle

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Discover more about Moussa Castle

Moussa Castle is more than just a castle; it's the embodiment of a lifelong dream realized by Moussa Abdel Karim Al Maamari. Born in 1931, Moussa was inspired by medieval castles from a young age, often sketching them during school. After being ridiculed by a teacher and scorned by his sweetheart, who wished to marry someone with a palace, Moussa vowed to build his own castle. Construction began in 1962, with Moussa moving over 6,000 massive stones, some weighing up to 150 kilograms, to the site by hand. Completed with the help of his wife, Marie, the castle opened to the public in 1969. Today, it stands as a museum showcasing Lebanese heritage with life-sized wax figures depicting 19th and early 20th-century village life, a collection of ancient weapons, and pottery. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms, each offering insights into Lebanese traditions and daily life. Highlights include Moussa's workshop with his original tools, the classroom scene depicting his childhood struggles, and the museum of ancient weapons. The castle also provides panoramic views of the surrounding Chouf Mountains. Moussa Castle is a symbol of perseverance, creativity, and Lebanese culture, drawing visitors from all over the world.

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