Travel Guide

Al-Omari Mosque

One of the biggest and oldest mosques in Lebanon, the Al-Omari Mosque in Beirut is a worthwhile tourist attraction, boasting an interesting history. Built in 1291, the Al-Omari mosque was one of the first buildings in Beirut to be restored after the Lebanese Civil War - showing its cultural importance to the citizens of Lebanon's capital city. The Al-Omari Mosque started life as a Crusader church (the Cathedral of St John), but when the Mamluks took control of Beirut from the Crusaders they immediately began converting the cathedral into the large, impressive mosque that we see today. Visitors to the Al-Omari mosque should dress appropriately (no revealing clothing), and request permission before entering. Note that the mosque is closed to visitors during prayer times and over the whole month of Ramadan.