Maronite Cathedral of Saint George, Beirut 🇱🇧

Located in downtown Beirut, the Saint George Maronite Cathedral offers you a profound look into Lebanon's rich religious architectural history. Constructed between 1884 and 1894 under Archbishop Joseph Debs and designed by Italian architect Giuseppe Maggiore, this historic cathedral stands on the site of an 18th-century church. As you step inside, you will notice its design draws inspiration from Rome's Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

You can admire its Neoclassical facade, beautiful basilica plan, and interior features like marble and stucco decorated walls, a gilded coffered ceiling, and an altar canopy resting above four columns. Look for the cathedra of the Archbishop of Beirut and the historic chair used by Pope John Paul II during his 1997 visit. The cathedral has weathered significant history, including extensive damage during the Lebanese Civil War and the 2020 Beirut explosion.

Outside, don't miss the 72-meter campanile, specifically built to match the height of the neighboring Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque's minarets as a symbol of interfaith harmony. Beneath the cathedral's forecourt annex, you can also view preserved archaeological treasures, including fragments of a Roman street, an Ottoman wall, and a Hellenistic structure.

What to see at Maronite Cathedral of Saint George, Beirut

• Neoclassical facade inspired by Rome's Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
• Coffered gilded ceiling and marble-and-stucco interior walls
• Papal chair used by Pope John Paul II during his 1997 visit
• 72-meter campanile built to symbolize interfaith solidarity
• Preserved Roman street, Hellenistic structure, and Ottoman wall

Visiting tips

Be sure to visit the cathedral forecourt area to view the preserved ancient archaeological remains beneath the annex.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Maronite Cathedral of Saint George, Beirut is easy to reach on Beirut’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Sursock Museum and law school of Berytus. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Beirut travel guide.