Samira from Beirut

About Me I am a reflective wanderer who turns her encounters into stories to be told during her walking guided tours in Beirut. I am passionate about discovering hidden gems, attending art exhibitions, having oral history conversations about the recent history of Beirut, and discovering specialty coffee shops. Why Beirut? Beirut is the city that all the Arab countries have...
Aug 19, 2025

The Old Manara Beirut

Beirut's old lighthouse

""The Old Manara" (lighthouse) in Beirut has been standing still since 1957. I love how it makes me feel so small next to it..."

This lighthouse has stood still from 1957 until now in its same spot, though it's not functioning anymore and is abandoned. This old manara (meaning lighthouse in Arabic) is a hidden gem that is fascinating to observe, as anyone can get very close to it, yet not everyone may have access inside.

A family named Chebli owned this lighthouse, as you can see on the doorbell on the door of the old manara. However, the new residential tower built next to has led to its dysfunctional state.

What I love about this lighthouse is that you feel so small in front of it, and it stands as an intersection between long stairs to the left that can lead to the Ain el Mreisse area in Beirut, and to the right you would see The Rose House, which I have already written about in another article.

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About this spot

Bliss Street, Beirut

LBP

no-price

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Ezzo for Antiques

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Das Küche

Sausages and beer

"Das Küche" is a must-visit spot in Beirut if you like real German or Polish sausages (more than 15 types!) and beer. Remember to bring cash!

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The MIM museum

A mesmerizing stare

Located under USJ's grounds on Damascus street, this Museum is a must-go especially if you're a huge fan of stones and geology like myself!

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Ghazar restaurant & bakery

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Pool D'Etat

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Onomatopoeia Beirut

The music hub

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Flat White

Coffee place in Pharoun Street

"Flat White" in Beirut with their modbar is the first presented in any coffee shop here in Lebanon! Great if you're a coffee geek...

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Samira

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Neighbourhood

The one with Beirut's coordinates

"Neighbourhood" in Beirut is a cafe that puts you among up-cycled furniture and a paster-color ambience. Come for a cup of their home-blend latte!

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Samira

Ezzo

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Gibran Khalil Gibran Garden

Hidden by cement

I enjoy going to "Gibran Khalil Gibran Garden" in downtown Beirut - I admire the sculptures done by Saloua Raouda Choucair and the trees & benches...

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Relaxing

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Samira

Ezzo

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The Memory Tree

The only famine memorial

The "Memory Tree" is the only standing memorial to the famine that Mount Lebanon suffered from 1915 till 1918. It's covered in Arabic calligraphy...

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