L’Artisan du Liban is a social movement whose vision is to keep culture alive and artisans active, as they claim on their website. They were established during the civil war by an NGO. Their purpose is to promote artisans from all over Lebanon, mainly villages and rural areas. They claim having saved 4 crafts from extinction, supporting more than 1000 artisans and offering more than 3000 items. They definitely are preserving Lebanese cultural heritage. The shop is not only for tourists and visitors looking for souvenirs. I usually buy gifts even for my local friends or nice crafted artistic elements for my house.
You can find small souvenir items for just a few dollars, such as keychains, earrings, bracelets, magnets… But you can also find homeware- decorations, tableware, mugs and cups and fashion as well. I remember I bought two stone coasters for my parents with the pictures of old Beirut on them. For my sister, I got a silver pendant in the form of a Lebanese. What is worth attention are the tablecloths — I got some for myself too. And I really love the set of colorful silicone coasters with arabesque motives, the style combines the modern material with old traditional design.
The prices range from 6000 LBP (ca. 6$) for a keychain to more expensive items, some jewelry reaching more than $50. I believe it is worth supporting the cause and getting a unique gift inspired by local culture and made by locals.
