Al-Omari MosqueOne 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.
Address: Corner of Rue Weygand and Rue Allenby |
