Background

Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral: A Beacon of Faith in Beirut

Discover Beirut's spiritual heart at the Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, a historic landmark with stunning architecture and a crypt museum.

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The Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, located in Beirut's city center, is a testament to the city's enduring faith and rich history. This magnificent cathedral, dating back to 1772, stands on the site of even older churches, with its roots tracing back to the 5th-century Byzantine era.

A brief summary to Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral

  • Monday 8 am-3 am
  • Tuesday 8 am-3 am
  • Wednesday 8 am-3 am
  • Thursday 8 am-3 am
  • Friday 8 am-3 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to experience the cathedral's peaceful ambiance and avoid crowds.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the cathedral.
  • Explore the crypt museum to discover the fascinating history of the site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral is located in Nejmeh Square in downtown Beirut, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From Martyrs' Square, head northeast towards the Lebanese Parliament building. The cathedral is located adjacent to the Parliament. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Beirut has a public transportation system consisting of buses and service taxis. From major hubs like Cola or Charles Helou station, take a bus or service taxi heading towards downtown Beirut. Ask the driver to drop you off near Nejmeh Square or the Lebanese Parliament. Bus fares typically cost around 75,000 LBP. Service taxis charge around 150,000 LBP for a ride within Beirut.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut. A taxi ride from areas like Hamra or Gemmayzeh to the Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral will typically cost between $3 to $6 (USD). Ensure the driver uses a meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral stands as a symbol of resilience and architectural grandeur in the heart of Beirut. This iconic landmark is not only a place of worship but also a window into the city's layered past. The cathedral's story began in the 5th century with the construction of the Anastasis Cathedral, near the Roman Law School of Beirut. This original church was destroyed by an earthquake in 551 AD. Over the centuries, the site saw multiple reconstructions, including a 12th-century cathedral. However, it wasn't until 1772 that the current structure was completed, featuring three altars. The cathedral suffered extensive damage during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990), leaving it structurally unsound and scarred by bullets. In the 1990s, archaeological excavations revealed a wealth of history beneath the cathedral, including mosaics from the 4th century. These discoveries led to the creation of a crypt museum, opened in 2011, which showcases the various layers of the church's past. The cathedral itself was meticulously restored and reopened in 2003, integrating the ancient mosaics into its floor layout. The interior boasts a rectangular design with a nave divided into five bays and three aisles. Eight sandstone piers support the structure, while frescoes adorn the vaulted ceiling. The half-vaulted painted dome above the central apse is a particularly striking feature.

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