Deir el Qamar

Deir el Qamar (Arabic: دير القمر, "Monastery of the Moon") is a historic village in the Chouf District. Capital of the Emirate of Mount Lebanon in the 16th–18th centuries. Famous for its remarkably well-preserved stone houses with red-tiled roofs, central Midane square, and historic churches and mosques.

By Plane

Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY IATA) ~40 km.

By Car / Road

From Beirut south toward Sidon, then east into the Chouf. Adjacent to Beiteddine.

Compact village best explored on foot.

• Midane Square – Central square with distinctive architecture.

• Fakhreddine II Mosque – 17th century.

• Deir el Qamar Synagogue – Restored 17th-century synagogue.

• Moussa Castle (nearby) – Built over 60 years by one man.

• Numerous historic churches.

• Village walk – Beautifully preserved streets.

• Photography – One of Lebanon's most photogenic villages.

• Moussa Castle visit.

Traditional restaurants in the village.

Arabic coffee at village cafes.

• Budget: Guesthouses, US$30–50/night
• Mid-range: Boutique guesthouses, US$60–100/night

Souvenirs and handicrafts.

• Beiteddine Palace (2 km) – Magnificent palace
• Sidon (30 km) – Sea Castle
• Barouk (15 km) – Cedar reserve