10 Things to Do in The Monastery of Mar Elisha Bcharre Lebanon
The Monastery of Mar Elisha in Bcharre, Lebanon is a unique and beautiful place to explore. Located in the Qadisha Valley, it is a sacred place for the Maronite Catholic Church and is home to many ancient artifacts and monuments. Here are 10 things to do while visiting the Monastery of Mar Elisha:
1. Visit the Church of St. John the Baptist: The church was built in the 17th century and is one of the oldest churches in the region. Inside, you will find an ancient altar and a beautiful painting of St. John the Baptist.
2. Explore the Monastery's Museum: The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the 5th century to the present day. This includes ancient manuscripts, coins, and other artifacts.
3. Take a Guided Tour: The monastery offers guided tours that will take you through the church, the museum, and the surrounding grounds.
4. Take a Hike: The monastery is surrounded by the Qadisha Valley, which is a great place to go for a hike. There are several trails that lead to the monastery, and the views are stunning.
5. Visit the Grotto of St. Maron: The grotto is located in the mountainside and is believed to be the place where St. Maron lived and prayed.
6. Attend a Mass: The monastery holds regular mass for visitors and pilgrims.
7. Attend a Festival: The monastery holds several festivals throughout the year, including the Maronite Festival and the St. Maron Festival.
8. Visit the Monastery's Library: The library at the monastery houses a collection of ancient manuscripts and books.
9. Take a Cooking Class: The monastery offers cooking classes that teach you how to make traditional Lebanese dishes.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The monastery is home to several restaurants that serve traditional Lebanese dishes.
The Monastery of Mar Elisha is a unique and beautiful place to visit. Whether you are looking to explore the history and culture of the region or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, the monastery is sure to provide a wonderful experience.