The main square in Deir Al-Qamar, Lebanon.

© Diego Fiore/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Main Square

Top choice in Lebanon


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.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Lebanon attractions

1. Serail of Youssef Chehab

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…

2. Qaisariye

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…

3. Beiteddine Palace

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…

4. Shouf Biosphere Reserve

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…

5. Chateau Kefraya

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…

6. Deir El Qalaa

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…

7. Horsh Beirut

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…

8. Temple of Echmoun

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…