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

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.