Maghen Abraham Synagogue 🇱🇧

When exploring the historic downtown district of Beirut, Lebanon, you will find the Maghen Abraham Synagogue nestled in the former Jewish quarter of Wadi Abu Jamil. Constructed in 1925 on land donated by Isaac Mann, this grand house of worship was funded by Moise Abraham Sassoon of Calcutta and designed by architect Bindo Manham.

Traditionally used for Torah and scientific lectures, weddings, and festive events, it stands as an enduring symbol of the city's rich multi-faith history. Though an earlier local synagogue was destroyed by an earthquake in 502 CE, Maghen Abraham survived severe damage from an Israeli bombardment during the 1982 Lebanon war, which once left its interior filled with rubble and broke its marble Ten Commandments tablets.

Thanks to a collaborative restoration project backed by private donations, Solidere, and support across political and religious spectrums, the structure was beautifully restored to its former glory and reopened around 2014. Visiting this site offers you a unique look at a carefully renovated landmark that endured both civil conflict and minor damage from the 2020 Beirut explosions.

What to see at Maghen Abraham Synagogue

• historic 1925 synagogue designed by architect Bindo Manham
• Located in Beirut's historical Wadi Abu Jamil quarter
• Beautifully restored interior following historic wartime damage
• Symbol of Lebanon's diverse religious history and heritage

Visiting tips

Respect the historic site and check local security conditions in downtown Beirut before planning your trip.

How long: 1 hour · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Maghen Abraham Synagogue 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.