Beiteddine Palace

Beiteddine Palace is a stunning 19th century treasure set high in the Chouf Mountains among stunning terraced gardens and orchards. Today, it is considered one of the most beautiful historical sites in Lebanon.

The palace was designed by an Italian architect and constructed over a 30-year period between 1788 and 1818. It was built for Emir Bashir Chehab II, the Ottoman-appointed governor of the province. Its name means 'House of Faith,' and its architecture is a blend of Arabic and Italian baroque elements.

The palace was utilized for local administration during the French mandate, and it was proclaimed a historic monument after 1930. It has been Lebanon's summer palace since 1943, when the country's first post-independence president designated it so.

The palace was severely destroyed during the Israeli invasion, with up to 90% of its contents being lost. It was claimed by the Druze militia after the battle finished, and it was returned to the government in 1999.

Much of the palace has been repaired in recent years. The stables, which once housed 600 horses and 500 foot troops and today house an enormous collection of Byzantine mosaics, are a highlight.

Location: Beiteddine, Lebanon