Lebanese Prehistoric Museum Beirut
Since 2000
The first museum for prehistory in the Middle East opened in the year 2000 and is nestled in Beirut, Monot Street inside Saint Joseph University. Don't get me wrong, this museum is accessible to the public, but managed by the university!
The Lebanese Prehistoric Museum is a permanent exhibition based on scientific and educational aspects, with pieces that go back to the prehistoric age. We're talking about pieces found from the archaeological excavations in Lebanon done by Jesuit scholars between the end of the 19th century and the year 1975.
The museum is made up of 2 floors, a ground floor, and an underground floor accessible through the staircases. All pieces are shown in glass display boxes and have a small explanation on them. You'll start your journey on the ground floor, from the east to the west after buying a ticket at the ticketing booth. This floor focuses on topics like trimming using flint stone for several purposes and the change of the human skull through the ages. As you go to the underground floor, you'll notice that the theme of pieces displayed is funerary, hunting, decorative artistic ornaments, and replicas of residential sites dating back to the Neolithic and Chalcolithic Age. Oh, and a room with a documentary on the journey of the Jesuits in discovering all of these pieces, and more on the life of the prehistoric human in Lebanon!
I do recommend you pay it a visit, as it is really eye-opening on this prehistoric age of the country!
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Beirut guide.
Cool place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Beirut
Farrouj Zaghal – 1966 Chicken Restuarant
What makes the chicken sandwiches different at Zaghal's is that they're wrapped in a "Marqouq bread" which was not popular in Beirut back in the 60s...
By
Samira
Ezzo
Steampunk – Industrial Specialty Coffee House
They have outdoor and indoor seating, with 3 comfy sofas that fit the steampunk theme and even the light bulbs above the bar are held up by gears.
By
Samira
Ezzo
Jaï – My Asian spot in Beirut!
Go to "Jaï" for awesome Thai, Chinese and Indian food in Beirut! Stick around for their fluffy donuts topped w/ spiced almonds and a coconut/lemon dip...
By
Samira
Ezzo
Cantina Sociale – A wine shop and café concept
Cantina Sociale is a wine and coffee shop concept located in Beirut. If you’re a fan of wine and chill, modern spaces then you need to hit it up...
By
Najat
Kibbi
Grand Meshmosh – Lowkey spot to chill
Very charming in a very simple manner - nothing too extravagant, yet very cozy. I love that Grand Meshmosh is never too loud or too crowded, but just perfect.
By
Tala
Ladki
Raseef Beirut – Cozy, Homey, Beautiful
One of my favorite places in Hamra is Raseef Beirut, originally a small sidewalk restaurant and pub – hence the name: “Raseef”, which translates to “sidewalk".
By
Tala
Ladki
Em Nazih – Come for the food, stay for the vibes
Known for its system, unique decor, and budget-friendly menu, Em Nazih is where you'd go on a lazy Sunday when you want to stuff your face with some good Lebanese food or on a casual coffee or drinks outing.
By
Tala
Ladki
Molo – All day coziness
The menu includes some local bites, but Molo is best known for its pizzas, served on a wooden plank. The menu is also rich with different types of hot tea, coffee, and signature cocktails.
By
Tala
Ladki
Orenda – A love affair
Tucked away in a small alley at the end of Mar Mikhael, the pink walls and soft music is unmissable. Orenda boasts an outdoor garden and an indoor space with a room reserved for their gift shop!
By
Tala
Ladki
Souk El Tayeb – It's got everything you need!
Some personal favorites are the hot Saj, locally produced peanut butter, jams, and other snacks such as Carob flavored cookies and of course, fresh fruits. It gets crowded, items run out fast so hurry up!
By
Tala
Ladki
Beyt - Mar Mikhael – Tradition meets trendiness
On the inside, Beyt is all about the traditional vibes, with an Arabic-style lounge area, a balcony overlooking the street with two small tables that seat two people each, and a gift shop packed with local goods!
By