Martyrs' Square
Beyrouth
Martyrs' Square, historically known as Al Burj or Place des Cannons, is Beirut's central public square and a site of profound historical and cultural significance. Originally an open space beyond the city walls marked by the Burj al-Kashef watchtower, the square evolved through many phases, reflecting Beirut's complex history. It was modernized in 1878 with gardens, fountains, and kiosks designed by Beshara Effendi, becoming the main meeting place of the city. The square was renamed in 1931 to honor Lebanese nationalists executed by Ottoman authorities in 1916, who fought for Lebanon's independence. The site features the iconic Martyrs' Monument by Marino Mazzacurati, inaugurated in 1960, symbolizing national pride and remembrance. Over time, Martyrs' Square has been a hub for cinemas, coffee houses, and transport, and it endured significant damage during the Lebanese Civil War when it became a dividing line in the city. Recent efforts aim to restore its role as Beirut's premier public space with open views to the sea, reestablishing its importance as the heart of the capital.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Martyrs' Square is during daylight hours to fully appreciate its monuments and lively atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding cafés and historic sites on foot. While entry to the square is free, guided tours can provide deeper historical context. Tickets or reservations are not required, but checking local event schedules can enhance the experience. Visitors should be mindful of ongoing urban development projects in the area.
Faits intéressants
- •Martyrs' Square was originally known as Al Burj, named after a historic watchtower called Burj al-Kashef.
- •The square was the site of the execution of Lebanese nationalists on 6 May 1916 by Ottoman authorities.
- •The original Monument aux Martyrs, known as Les Pleureuses, was removed in 1953 and is now displayed outside the Sursock Museum.
- •The current Martyrs' Monument was inaugurated in 1960 and symbolizes Lebanese national pride.
- •During the Lebanese Civil War, Martyrs' Square formed the demarcation line dividing Beirut into two parts.
Histoire
Martyrs' Square originated as an open space beyond Beirut's city walls, named after the Burj al-Kashef watchtower.
In 1773, it was renamed Place du Canon after a Russian cannon was placed nearby, later becoming Place des Canons with French cannons in 1860.
The square was called Hamidiyyeh Square in 1884 to honor Sultan Abdul Hamid II, then Union Square and Freedom Square following the Young Turks revolution.
In 1931, it was officially named Martyrs' Square to commemorate the Lebanese nationalists executed there in 1916.
The square has undergone multiple transformations, including modernization in 1878, the demolition of the Petit Serail in 1950, and damage during the Lebanese Civil War when it formed a demarcation line dividing Beirut.
Guide du lieu
Martyrs' Monument1960
A triumphant sculpture by Marino Mazzacurati inaugurated in 1960, commemorating the Lebanese nationalists executed under Ottoman rule. It stands as a symbol of national pride and remembrance.
Les Pleureuses (The Weeping Women)1930
The original Monument aux Martyrs by Youssef Hoyek unveiled in 1930, depicting grieving Christian and Muslim mothers. It was removed in 1953 and relocated to the Sursock Museum due to its controversial reception.
Petit Serail SiteDemolished 1950
Former seat of Beirut's governor general overlooking the square, demolished in 1950 to make way for urban development.
Beshara Effendi's Garden Design1878
The 1878 modernization of the square included a garden with fountains and kiosks, designed by Beshara Effendi, establishing the square as Beirut's main meeting place.
