The main square is a showcase of fine Arab architecture, including the Mosque of Emir Fakhreddine Maan, built in 1493, and, behind it, a cobbler's souq housing touristy shops. Above and behind the souq is a beautiful silk khan built in 1595 that now houses a cultural centre. Nearby are the buildings that once housed a Jesuit school and a synagogue, as well as the Palace of the poet Nicolas El Turq, which has a cafe on its ground floor.
© Diego Fiore/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Main Square
Top choice in Lebanon
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
12.76 MILES
Located on the former Green Line, this is Beirut's major cultural institution. Its impressive, magnificently displayed collection of archaeological…
9.72 MILES
The largest of Lebanon’s three natural protectorates, comprising an incredible 5% of the total land area, this is the largest natural cedar reserve in the…
12.87 MILES
Under the St Joseph university, this atmospheric and beautifully designed museum presents an extraordinary collection of exquisitely selected and…
14.11 MILES
When a bomb fell on the Orthodox cathedral in 1975, the only silver lining was that it revealed these ruins beneath. Though the area is small, an…
14.56 MILES
Along with Tripoli's, Saida's old city is Lebanon's most characterful and authentic souq area. It's a delight to wander the narrow lanes, ducking into…
28.68 MILES
One of the Galilee’s loveliest creek-side trails, about 3km long, follows the Iyyun (Ayun) Stream from its crossing from Lebanon into Israel, through a…
0.92 MILES
Sitting majestically on a hill surrounded by terraced gardens and orchards, Beiteddine Palace is one of the highlights of the Chouf Mountains. This…
17.74 MILES
One of the Middle East's greatest natural wonders, the stunning Jeita Grotto cave system extends around 6km into the mountains 18km, northeast of Beirut…
Nearby Lebanon attractions
0.03 MILES
On the main street opposite the main square is this beautiful 18th-century palace, which now serves as the town hall (look for the two carved lions above…
0.03 MILES
This harmonious khan just above the square was built in the late 16th century and chiefly served as a souq for silk and jewel traders. These days a French…
0.92 MILES
Sitting majestically on a hill surrounded by terraced gardens and orchards, Beiteddine Palace is one of the highlights of the Chouf Mountains. This…
9.72 MILES
The largest of Lebanon’s three natural protectorates, comprising an incredible 5% of the total land area, this is the largest natural cedar reserve in the…
10.17 MILES
One of only a couple of wineries in Lebanon that you can currently visit without pre-booking, this produces quality wines of all three colours. You might…
10.84 MILES
Built over the remains of a Roman temple, this 18th-century Maronite monastery was extensively damaged during the civil war but has been fully restored. A…
12.26 MILES
The large and verdant Horsh Beirut could be the city's version of Central Park, but opening hours are irregular to the point of arbitrary, and it’s manned…
12.37 MILES
About 3km northeast of Saida, this is Lebanon’s only Phoenician site boasting more than mere foundations. Begun in the 7th century BC, the temple complex…