National Museum Beirut

A national treasure

Lidija from Beirut

""National Museum" is one of the most underrated sites in Beirut, even by locals. It has ancient artifacts and was also on the frontline in the civil war."

The National Museum, otherwise known as the mat-haf, is one of the most underrated sites in Beirut. Ask any local and more often than not, they’ll tell you that they’ve never set foot in it. I think it’s well worth a visit: it has the world’s biggest collection of Phoenician sarcophagi in the basement level, displayed beautifully in a row with a mirror set behind them, so it looks like there are twice as many. Look out for the prehistoric items in the museum, including spears and flints, and the colourful Byzantine and Roman mosaics.

During the Civil War, the museum was on the frontline and you can still see bullet holes in the side walls. It was occupied by militiamen and snipers, and the surrounding area came to be known as one of the most dangerous in the city. The building suffered extensive damage. A lot of the artifacts were hidden away in basement rooms, and mosaics were covered with concrete. Despite the lack of local visitors, the museum is a national treasure which survived the war and managed to rise from its ashes.

Art & culture

Buy one, Give one!

Share your 💚 this December

*on all products

Beirut Spotter Lidija

About me Hello! I'm a global nomad and have lived in 8 countries. I work as a creative writer, editor and marketer, and my favourite things are meeting people and hearing their unique stories. Home is many places, but always where my family and friends are. Why Beirut For me Beirut is all about the people here - their warmth, generosity and resilience! The city is dynamic, fast-paced and has everything from amazing beach clubs and cafes, to galleries, and incredible food. There’s a story to be told about every building and corner of the city. Where else ca...

About this spot

Watwat

Single entry:

LBP

30,000

Dec 2, 2025

Our Beirut City Guide

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.

Loved it? Join us!

Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!

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

Discover all other hidden gems in Beirut

The Bruvs

Burger Restaurant

My friend got the chicken sandwich which he said was delicious, while I enjoyed the Bruvs pasta, which was creamy, cheesy, and simply yummy!

Restaurants

Marie-Chantale

Sundberg

Dec 4, 2025

Abou Jihad

Lebanese Cuisine

I am a vegetarian and going to a Lebanese diner is never an issue: half of the mezze does not contain meat or poultry, and several dishes are even vegan.

Restaurants

Marie-Chantale

Sundberg

Dec 4, 2025

Sld Bar

Healthy Food Restaurant

The menu is diversified with not only hearty salads but also tartines, sandwiches, soups, desserts, and sweet bowls. One of my favorites is the Acai bowl.

Restaurants

Snacks

Marie-Chantale

Sundberg

Dec 4, 2025

Hanna Mitri

The best ice cream in Beirut

"Hanna Mitri" in Beirut is all about the ice cream. It's existed since 1949 and it's the only place in the city that has people queuing up outside it...

Snacks

Lidija

Liegis

Dec 4, 2025

Beirut's Ex-Abandoned Mansion

Your vintage home

"Beirut's Ex-Abandoned Mansion" is now a vibrant community for artists and a workspace in one of the city's oldest areas. I love its vintage feeling...

Art & culture

Rayan

Ezzeddine

Dec 4, 2025

Bread Republic

Bread heaven

"Bread Republic" in Beirut has amazing fresh bread and divine bruschetta... Heavenly desserts too. Everything's simply made to perfection here...

Restaurants

Snacks

Stephanie

Geryes

Dec 4, 2025

Barbeer

Beirut's gold and silver district

"Barbeer" in Beirut is the jewellery, silver and gold district---much more local than the city's modern souks. You definitely won't leave disappointed...

Shopping

Lidija

Liegis

Dec 4, 2025

Al-Omari Mosque

Beautiful ancient mosque

The "Al-Omari Mosque" in Beirut is one of the city's oldest buildings. I think it perfectly showcases Lebanon's multi-religious culture...

Art & culture

Lidija

Liegis

Dec 4, 2025

Makan

Cosy dining spot with rotating chefs

"Makan" in Beirut has no set cuisine: Thai, Greek, Uzbek, Peruvian or Georgian... it all depends on the chef and the day! Very welcoming atmosphere.

Restaurants

Lidija

Liegis

Dec 4, 2025

St Nicolas Stairs

Colorful steps, chill people

I really love the "St Nicolas Stairs" -- there's something particular about them with the art and colors on every step & the people gathering there...

Art & culture

Stephanie

Geryes

Dec 4, 2025

Catrinas

Mexican restaurant

"Catrinas" is one of my favorite restaurants in Beirut. It makes extremely delicious Mexican food and has spot-on atmosphere. Just try not to go at night.

Restaurants

Rayan

Ezzeddine

Dec 4, 2025

Holiday Inn Beirut

War-abandoned hotel

"Holiday Inn Beirut" was a victim of the war. It has remained abandoned since the '70s, continuing to remind the Lebanese about the horrors of conflict...

Art & culture