10 things to do in The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya Bcharre Lebanon
The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya in Bcharre, Lebanon is a beautiful and historic site that is well worth a visit. Located in the heart of the Qadisha Valley, the monastery is one of the oldest in the world and is home to an incredible collection of ancient artifacts and artwork. If you're looking for a unique experience, here are 10 things to do when visiting the Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya.
1. Visit the Church: The church at the Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya is a beautiful and ornate structure that was built in the 12th century. Inside, visitors can view amazing artwork and artifacts, including a beautiful iconostasis that dates back to the 16th century.
2. Explore the Monastery Grounds: The grounds of the Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya are home to a number of interesting sites, including a bell tower, a cemetery, and a small museum. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which is filled with stunning views of the Qadisha Valley.
3. Learn About the Monastery's History: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 5th century. Visitors can learn about the monastery’s history and its importance to the local community by taking a guided tour of the grounds.
4. Attend a Service: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya is still an active monastery, and visitors are welcome to attend services. The monastery holds services every Sunday and on major feast days, and visitors can join in the singing and prayer.
5. Visit the Icon Museum: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya is home to an incredible collection of icons, many of which are hundreds of years old. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history and symbolism of the icons.
6. Take a Hike: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya is surrounded by stunning landscapes, and visitors can take advantage of the trails that wind through the area. Hiking is a great way to explore the area and take in the breathtaking views.
7. Visit the Grotto of Saint Anthony: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya is home to the Grotto of Saint Anthony, a natural cave where the Saint is said to have lived in solitude. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about the Saint’s life and teachings.
8. Visit the Monastery's Library: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya is home to an impressive library that contains a wealth of information about the monastery’s history and the local area. Visitors can explore the library and learn about the monastery’s past.
9. Attend a Festival: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of Saint Anthony in August and the Festival of the Cross in September. Visitors can join in the festivities and experience the local culture.
10. Shop for Souvenirs: The Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and other items. The shop sells a variety of items, including books, icons, jewelry, and more.