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National Museum of Beirut: A Journey Through Lebanese History

Explore millennia of Lebanese history and culture at the National Museum of Beirut, home to priceless artifacts from prehistoric times to the Ottoman era.

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The National Museum of Beirut is the principal museum of archaeology in Lebanon, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts that narrate the country's history from prehistoric times to the Ottoman era. Despite suffering damage during the Lebanese Civil War, it has been restored and stands as a symbol of Lebanon's cultural heritage.

A brief summary to National Museum of Beirut

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-3 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for current opening hours and any special events or exhibitions.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the artifacts.
  • Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash to protect the delicate artifacts.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Visit during the off-season or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The National Museum is accessible via Beirut's public bus system. Inquire about bus routes that pass near the museum and disembark at the nearest stop on Damascus Street. From there, it's a short walk to the museum entrance. Bus fares typically cost a minimal amount, around LBP 5,000-10,000 for a short trip within the city.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut. Simply hail a taxi and provide the museum's address (National Museum of Beirut, Mathaf) to the driver. Ensure the meter is running or negotiate a fare beforehand. A short taxi ride from areas like Hamra Street to the museum typically costs around LBP 40,000-60,000. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in central Beirut, walking to the National Museum is a viable option. From Hamra Street, it's approximately a 25-minute walk. Use a map or GPS to navigate the streets. Walking allows you to experience the city's atmosphere and discover other landmarks along the way. No costs are involved.

  • Car

    If driving, the National Museum is located on Damascus Road in the Mathaf area. Parking is available near the museum, but it can be limited during peak hours. Parking fees, if applicable, are generally around LBP 5,000-10,000 per hour. Be aware of traffic conditions, especially during rush hour.

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Discover more about National Museum of Beirut

The National Museum of Beirut, located in the heart of the city, is a treasure trove of Lebanese history and culture. Officially opened in 1942, the museum's collection began after World War I and now includes approximately 100,000 objects, with around 1,300 artifacts on display. These items, primarily antiquities and medieval finds, originate from excavations across Lebanon. The museum's exhibits are arranged chronologically, starting with prehistoric finds and moving through the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods. Key artifacts include Phoenician sarcophagi, Roman mosaics, and Byzantine-era items. The ground floor features large objects like sarcophagi, mosaics, statues, and reliefs, while the upper floor displays smaller artifacts in modern showcases. Noteworthy collections include the sarcophagus of Ahiram, which bears the oldest text in the Phoenician alphabet, and a fresco depicting Mary, the mother of Jesus, believed to be one of the oldest representations of Mary. The museum also displays naturally preserved Maronite mummies from the Qadisha Valley and a frescoed tomb from Tyre. The basement level, reopened after extensive renovations, showcases funerary art, including a human tooth dating back 250,000 years and Ottoman stone carvings from the 19th century. The museum's architecture blends modern and traditional Lebanese elements. During the Lebanese Civil War, the museum stood on the front line, suffering significant damage. However, many artifacts were saved through preemptive measures, and the museum has since been restored, reaffirming its role in preserving and promoting Lebanon's cultural heritage.

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