Tabbal Building Beirut

Traditional architecture

Najat from Beirut

"The "Tabbal Building" in Beirut is one of 800 heritage sites that were damaged in the 2020 blast. It's still an ideal location for art exhibitions..."

Back in April, I attended an exhibition by the name ”everyone’s the creator of one’s own faith” and that exhibition took place in the Tabbal building on Sursock’s main street.

When I went I was mesmerized, not only by the art of course, but the architecture of the building is astonishing. It was the first time I had heard of or been inside the building but apparently it has been there for more than 100 years: the owner bought it to build a home with his beloved wife in the 1890s. Each floor of the building has a central haul corresponding to a triple arch on its facade, as well as a gorgeous vaulted ceiling and geometric tiled floors. The whole layout of the rooms on each floor screams traditional Lebanese architecture.

When you enter the building, you can feel how each room holds a story. I even found some writings on one of the bedroom doors and a wall. All these left details made me feel closer to the history of the building.

The Tabbal building was made a heritage site by the general direction of antiquities back in 1999, but sadly it is one of the 800 protected buildings that sustained damage from the blast, as most of Beirut's Ottoman architecture lies close to the port.

If you pass by this building, you should check it out, or if you get the chance to go to an exhibition there, don’t hesitate - it will be worth your while.

Art & culture

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Beirut Spotter Najat

About me I am a graphic designer and freelancer, passionate about art in general. I grew up drawing and painting and it always has been my way of expression. I love music - you'll never catch me without earphones in my ears. I also love reading and writing: basically, anything that can inspire me and help me escape into my creative head and thoughts is what I look for. Why Beirut Well, why not Beirut? I mean, with all its chaos, how can you not love her? She's art, she has a symphony of her own. The people, the food, the nightlife, the blend of people of all background...

About this spot

Sursock

LBP

free

Social

Nov 8, 2025

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