Viera from Beirut

About me I am a Slovak, born in 1983, who has studied international politics in Prague. I lived in Prague for 9 years before I met my future husband who happened to be a Lebanese from Beirut. At the moment we live here with our family, I work with the local university, and the kids have started school. Why Beirut I've lived in Beirut since 2011. When I first came here, it ...

Aug 30, 2025

Mar Maroun Church Beirut

A place for reflection

""Mar Maroun Church" in Beirut is Lebannon's biggest Maronite church. You can see the Arab influence on the architecture. Bonus points: I was married here!"

Every city's history breathes through its historical monuments, buildings and churches. Churches that have quietly witnessed the prayers of all the believers and visitors for ages.

Mar Maroun (or Saint Maroun) church, situated at the borders of Gemmayze street and Saifi Village, is the biggest Maronite church in Lebanon. It is dedicated to Saint Maroun, the founder of the Maronite catholic sect. The church was built in the late 19th century in the traditional stone architecture style that's typical for the area.

From outside it has a rectangular shape with two parallel towers having a cross on the top of each. The crosses flare up at night. The interior is splendid: many two- coloured arches, so-called ablaqs, are used. The style reminds me of Moorish & Pisan architecture. You can feel the Arab touch on this Christian building.

There is also a beautiful crystal chandelier illuminating the nave. The altar part is embellished by a painting of Saint Maroun. You can enjoy a small terrace with some stone benches in front of the church. The flooring is decorated by a typical stone mosaic khokhlaki. It is a peaceful spot for meditation, maybe you can spot pere Richard there.

If you wish, you can attend a mass on Sunday at 18:00. For me, it was interesting to listen to a liturgy in Arabic, to observe that even some songs are the same, just in a different language. Mar Maroun has a special place in my heart, because I got married there <3.

Art & culture

About this spot

Gemmayze

LBP

free

1577227

Social

find your way in Beirut, download our app.

Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Beirut guide.

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Beirut

Wissam Sargi Salon

Beauty Lounge & Clinics

At Wissam Sargi, you can pamper yourself every single day of the week. They do hair fashion for men, women, and children as well as makeup and facial care.

Relaxing

Marie-Chantale

Sundberg

Sep 8, 2025

Skin Society

Beauty & Cosmetics

One of my favorite sections is the one with hand-made soaps. These soaps are simply heavenly: they smell great, last long, and look super cute!

Relaxing

Shopping

Marie-Chantale

Sundberg

Sep 8, 2025

Saj Al Balad

Fresh taste of Saj in Beirut

Whenever I crave some fresh breakfast outside, "Saj Al Balad" in Beirut comes to mind. The owner will make you feel most welcome whenever you visit!

Coffee & tea

Snacks

Samira

Ezzo

Sep 8, 2025

Sep 8, 2025

Gouraud Street

Where the old meets the new

"Gouraud Street" adjacent to the St. Nicholas Stairs in Beirut is my safe place. I come here when I'm sad or happy, with friends, for coffee and a chat...

Art & culture

Relaxing

Najat

Kibbi

Sep 8, 2025

Bedo

Sujuk shawarma sandwiches

"Bedo" in Beirut makes the best sujuk and basterma sandwiches around. Honestly, the taste reminds me of good old childhood memories - and fun nights out!