Our Lady of Lebanon Shrine: Visit Lebanon's Sacred Landmark

1. Visitor Fee

• Visitor Fee: There is no fee to visit the Our Lady of Lebanon Shrine. Access to the statue, basilica, and surrounding areas is free. However, donations are welcome, and there may be fees for parking or the cable car (Téléférique) if you choose that route to reach the shrine.

2. Transportation

• By Road: The shrine is located in Harissa, about 20 kilometers north of Beirut. You can reach it by car via the Beirut-Tripoli highway, followed by a steep but scenic mountain road that leads directly to the shrine. The drive from Beirut takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
• Public Transport: Buses and minibuses run between Beirut and Jounieh. From Jounieh, you can take a taxi or the Téléférique to reach Harissa.
• Téléférique: A popular way to reach the shrine is by taking the Téléférique from Jounieh. This cable car ride offers breathtaking views of Jounieh Bay and the Mediterranean Sea as you ascend to the shrine.

3. Things to Do

• Climb the Statue: The main attraction is the statue of Our Lady of Lebanon, a towering bronze figure of the Virgin Mary. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase around the base of the statue to reach the viewing platform, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast and the surrounding mountains.
• Visit the Basilica of Harissa: Adjacent to the statue is the modern Basilica of Our Lady of Lebanon. This large, beautifully designed church features striking stained glass windows and a serene interior, making it a perfect place for prayer and reflection.
• Attend Mass: The basilica hosts regular religious services, including daily Mass. The site is a popular pilgrimage destination, especially during religious holidays and festivals.
• Enjoy the Scenery: The shrine's hilltop location provides visitors with breathtaking views of Jounieh, Beirut, and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a favorite spot for photography.
• Meditate and Reflect: The peaceful surroundings and spiritual atmosphere of the shrine make it an ideal place for quiet meditation and reflection.

4. Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• Spiritual Significance: The Our Lady of Lebanon Shrine is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Lebanon, attracting believers from all over the world. It is a place of deep spiritual significance for Maronite Christians and others who come to pray, seek blessings, and pay homage to the Virgin Mary.
• Stunning Views: The shrine offers some of the most breathtaking views in Lebanon, with a panorama that includes the Mediterranean Sea, the mountains, and the bustling cities below. The experience of reaching the site via the Téléférique adds to the awe-inspiring nature of the visit.
• Cultural and Architectural Beauty: The statue, basilica, and surrounding grounds are beautifully designed and well-maintained, offering visitors both religious and cultural experiences.
• Accessibility: The shrine’s proximity to Beirut and the ease of access via the cable car or by road make it a convenient and popular destination for both tourists and locals.

5. How Old is This Place?

• Age of the Shrine: The statue of Our Lady of Lebanon was inaugurated in 1908, making it over 115 years old. The site was established to honor the Virgin Mary and has since become a major religious landmark in Lebanon. The Basilica of Harissa was added later, in 1990, to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.

6. List of Activities

• Religious Worship: Participate in religious services, attend Mass, or spend time in personal prayer and reflection at the basilica.
• Climb the Statue: Ascend the spiral staircase of the Our Lady of Lebanon statue to reach the viewing platform.
• Cable Car Ride: Take the Téléférique from Jounieh to Harissa for a scenic journey.
• Photography: Capture the stunning views of the landscape, the architecture of the shrine, and the surrounding area.
• Cultural Exploration: Learn about the history and significance of the shrine through plaques and information available on-site.

7. Additional Nearby Attractions

• Jounieh: Explore the nearby coastal city of Jounieh, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic old souks, and beautiful seaside promenade.
• Jeita Grotto: Just a short drive from Harissa, this famous limestone cave system is one of Lebanon’s most visited natural attractions.
• Byblos (Jbeil): Located about 20 kilometers north of Harissa, Byblos is an ancient city with a rich history, offering ancient ruins, a charming old town, and a lively harbor.
• Kaslik: A district in Jounieh known for its upscale shopping, restaurants, and cafes, offering a mix of local and international flavors.

The Our Lady of Lebanon Shrine in Harissa is a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual enrichment, cultural experiences, and breathtaking natural beauty in Lebanon.