Most peaceful place to stay for a weekend in the intensity, energy, prayers and devotion to St Charbel. You are surrounded by a lush green garden with beautiful mountain views. Our idea was to be on spot and wake up fairly early and benefit from the sanctuary facilities before it gets too crowded (which it really does as of noon on Sundays). Food served at the restaurant of the monastery was simple, served rapidly, yet tasty and very affordable, all shared in a friendly dinning room, bath in natural sunlight, with a view on beautiful landscape. Rooms are the only down part, they all only have single beds (2 or 3 per rooms), with bare minimum comfort, extremely cold at night, (specially during this winter period, with snow around). Bring lots of very warm night clothes to keep you comfortable in bed. Prices are just so reasonable, USD 50 for 2 persons per night including a light breakfast. On Sundays they have mass every hour between 6 a.m and noon and more in the afternoon. The staff is extremely friendly and caring at all levels. It is highly recommended you book your room prior of getting there, specially if it is going to be on a Saturday, as they only keep 20 rooms. Very pleasant spiritual moment spend there, and a highly...
Read moreIt is an amazing place to visit thanks to its miraculous atmosphere. It is easier to understand if you are a believer yourself, though it is not a condition. Although it is the Monastery of Saint Maron it is well known because of Saint Charbel's presence. In many countries, he is a less-known Saint but in Lebanon, he is a very famous figure. He is known for many miracles and that is why you may meet here many pilgrims. I recommend visiting the complex; you can visit the church, Saint Charbel's tomb, and a museum. The sanctuary has a nice mountain location so you can admire great views if the weather is good.
The site is extremely well taken care of and it is beautifully serene. They’ve done a really good job at blending the religious components (tomb/church) with a mini museum and a gift shop.
There’s no way to explain the energy emanating from Saint Charbel’s tomb without living it yourself. Take time to sit, take it in, and...
Read moreSt. Charbel is the patron saint of Lebanon. We especially enjoyed our time praying here. It is nice up Above, where there are no pictures allowed and silence is appreciated. Down below at the church, you can buy souvenirs and pray and go to mass. There have been many miracles granted by God through the intercession of Saint Charbel. There is a wonderful fairly cheap souvenir shop that goes upstairs and downstairs within the church territory. There is also a great store with local products that you can purchase, including jams...
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