The Top 10 Museums to Visit in Lebanon
Lebanon is as culturally rich as it is historical. Having been the site for numerous civilizations — from the Phoenicians to the Romans and then Ottomans — it is no surprise that historical treasures keep getting excavated in the country. Lebanon’s history of war is also the source of Lebanese identities, and has inspired art. Find out more about Lebanese history and culture at these top 10 museums.
1. National Museum of Beirut
Building, Museum
Founded as a concept in 1919, the National Museum of Beirut stands tall as a monument in its own right. The actual building of the establishment took place in 1930. Until then, the artifacts were housed in another building in Beirut. By 1942 the museum had opened its doors, but in 1975 it was damaged by the civil war. The building was ruined almost to destruction as it was used as militia base. Its artifacts had to be kept in storage for 15 years. Restoration started in 1995, and in 1999 the museum once again opened.
Its collection includes items from the prehistoric era, the Roman period (64-395 CE) and up until the Mamluk period (635-1516 CE).
Museum Street, Beirut, Lebanon, +961 1 426 703
2. Sursock Museum
Building, Museum
First opened in 1961, Sursock Musem is a converted mansion dedicated to showcasing contemporary art. The museum became possible through art collector and aristocrat Nicolas Sursock’s love for art, and his view that artists needed the type of backing that an institution can provide. In 2008 the building saw expansive renovation, and today is still the place to be for art enthusiasts.
Greek Orthodox Archbishopric Street, Ashrafieh,Beirut, Lebanon, +961 1 202 001
3. MIM Mineral Museum
Museum, University
Located in the University of Saint Joseph, the MIM Mineral Museum is the place for all science enthusiasts. Home to over 300 types of minerals, it is considered one of the world’s best collections of its kind. A screen with valuable information about mineralogy is a helpful tool for enthusiastic beginners.
Université Saint-Joseph Campus de L’innovation et du Sport (CIS), Beirut, Lebanon, +961 1 421 672
5. Sidon Soap Museum
Building, Museum
Located in a 13th century building, the Sidon Soap Museum itself dates back to the 17th century. It was once a soap factory, and reflects an important part of Lebanon’s history, as olive oil-based products have constituted the bulk of the country’s export.
Al Moutran Str., Haret Audi, Old Town Saida, Sidon, Lebanon, +961 7 733 353
6. Archaeological Museum of the American University of Beirut
Museum, University
7. Gibran Museum
Building, Monastery, Museum
Dedicated to the historical Lebanese writer Khalil Gibran, this museum in his name provides a fascinating look into the writer’s life. Originally a monastery for monks seeking shelter in the 7th century and home to a hermitage site, the building opened its doors as a museum 1975. The writer acquired the building in 1926, as he wanted it as a home and then later as his tomb. In 1932 the contents of Gibran’s New York apartment were brought back to Lebanon and are now on display here.
Bsharri, North Governorate, Lebanon, +961 6 671 137
8. Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MACAM)
Museum
9. Beiteddine Palace
Museum
The palace is a museum and is one of Lebanon’s most famous houses. It’s the site for yearly music festivals and is always alive with activity. The rooms of the palace are full of historical artifacts and furniture. You can also tour the courtyards and historical residential suites.
Beit ed-Dine, Mount Lebanon Governorate, Lebanon, +961 5 500 077
10. Bsous Silk Museum
Museum
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