Our Lady of Lebanon
Mont-Liban
The Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, located in the village of Harissa in Mount Lebanon, is a significant Marian pilgrimage site administered by the Maronite Patriarchate and managed by the Congregation of Maronite Lebanese Missionaries since its foundation in 1904. The shrine is distinguished by a massive 15-ton bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, standing 8.5 meters tall with outstretched hands facing Beirut, symbolizing protection and blessing. Erected in 1907 on a hill 650 meters above sea level, the statue was donated anonymously by a French woman and was inaugurated alongside the shrine in 1908. This site holds immense religious importance for Lebanese Christians, Druze, and Muslims alike, reflecting Lebanon's unique interfaith devotion to Mary. The shrine has welcomed papal visits, including Pope John Paul II in 1997 and Pope Leo XIV in 2025, underscoring its international religious significance. Visitors often reach the shrine via the Téléphérique cable car from Jounieh, enjoying panoramic views of the coast. Besides its spiritual role, the site offers pastoral, social, and tourism services, including a heritage park, family-friendly amenities, and religious souvenirs, making it both a sacred and cultural landmark in Lebanon.
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Tip: The best time to visit Our Lady of Lebanon is during mild weather seasons to enjoy the panoramic views and outdoor areas comfortably. It is advisable to plan visits around scheduled mass times or special ceremonies, which are regularly updated on the official website and social media. Purchasing tickets for the Téléphérique cable car in advance can help avoid queues. Visitors can also explore the heritage park nearby, which offers family-friendly facilities and peaceful nature walks. Discounts may be available for groups or religious pilgrims, so checking with the shrine administration beforehand is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The bronze statue weighs approximately 15 tonnes and stands 8.5 meters high with a diameter of 5 meters.
- •The statue’s hands are stretched towards Beirut, symbolizing protection over the city.
- •The shrine attracts millions of visitors annually, including Christians, Druze, and Muslims, reflecting Lebanon’s religious diversity.
- •Pope John Paul II celebrated mass at the shrine during his 1997 visit and prayed for the sick worldwide.
- •The site is accessible via the Téléphérique cable car from Jounieh, offering scenic views of the Lebanese coast.
History
The Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon was established in 1904 under the Maronite Patriarchate, with the bronze statue erected in 1907 on a hill overlooking the coast near Jounieh.
The land was donated by Yousef Khazen, and the statue was assembled from seven sections atop a stone base.
The shrine was inaugurated in 1908, becoming a major pilgrimage destination.
It gained further prominence with papal visits, including Pope John Paul II in 1997 and Pope Leo XIV in 2025, marking its role as a symbol of interfaith unity and devotion in Lebanon.
Place Guide
The Bronze Statue of Our Lady of Lebanon1907
An imposing 15-ton bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, painted white and standing 8.5 meters tall, symbolizing Mary’s protection over Lebanon and Beirut. It is composed of seven assembled sections atop a large stone base.
The Modern Basilica20th century
A contemporary church building within the shrine complex where major masses and ceremonies are held, including papal masses such as that of Pope John Paul II in 1997.
Téléphérique Cable CarLate 20th century
A cable car system connecting the city of Jounieh to the shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, providing visitors with spectacular views of the Mediterranean coast and the surrounding landscape.
Harissa Heritage ParkEstablished in the 21st century
A landscaped park surrounding the shrine that offers a calm and relaxing environment with diverse trees and flowers, family-friendly facilities including a restaurant and outdoor playground.
Contact
Phone: 09 263 660
