Feb 17, 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.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

About this spot

Bliss Street, Beirut

LBP

no-price

Explore Beirut like a local with Spotted by Locals - 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

Daraj

Cute Mar Mikhael Coffee Spot!

Daraj in Mar Mikhael, offers great coffee, tea, and a tempting food menu. With sunny outdoor seating, it’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon!

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
017-plant-1
Relaxing

By

Tala

Ladki

Mar 10, 2025

Falafel Tabbara

Older than Great Lebanon

This current shop in Ras Beirut, Snoubra has been there since 1979, when Abou Ziad, the current owner, decided to move from main street Hamra...

024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Samira

Ezzo

Mar 10, 2025

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.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

By

Marie-Chantale

Sundberg

Mar 9, 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!

017-plant-1
Relaxing
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Marie-Chantale

Sundberg

Mar 9, 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!

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Samira

Ezzo

Mar 9, 2025

West Beirut Calligraffiti

From chaos comes art

The "West Beirut Calligraffiti" is a work inspired by the famous movie. It's a reminder of the darkness of war and the kindness that can emerge...

002-building
Art & culture

By

Najat

Kibbi

Mar 9, 2025

Revolutionary Art Wall

Art of change

The "Revolutionary Art Wall" in Beirut was created in October 2019, during the revolution. Since then, the artists' message & creativity keep inspiring...

002-building
Art & culture

By

Najat

Kibbi

Mar 9, 2025

Tabbal Building

Traditional architecture

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...

002-building
Art & culture

By

Najat

Kibbi

Mar 9, 2025

Literature Wall of Fame

The giants of literature

The "Literature Wall of Fame" in Beirut was painted in 2020 during the quarantine & celebrates the giants of Arabic literature. This is my favorite quote.

002-building
Art & culture

By

Najat

Kibbi

Mar 9, 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!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Najat

Kibbi

Mar 9, 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...

002-building
Art & culture
017-plant-1
Relaxing

By

Najat

Kibbi

Mar 9, 2025

Union Marks

Mid-city getaway

"Union Marks" in Beirut is a hidden gem in an old factory. The drinks are amazing and the food delicious. Try their peanut-butter baked potatoes...

002-building
Art & culture
028-beach-bar-1
Bars
024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Najat

Kibbi

Mar 9, 2025

Heading to Beirut?

179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

Heading to Beirut?

179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

Our team loves Beirut

Get to know our other Spotters from Beirut

As featured on:

cached_response not present
7316
Filters