10 Things to Do in Our Lady of the Fortress (Deir el Qamar), Lebanon
Deir el Qamar, Lebanon, is a charming village located in the Chouf Mountains of Mount Lebanon. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and its rich history, which dates back to the 15th century. It is home to the Our Lady of the Fortress, a 16th-century fortress built by the Druze prince Fakhr-ed-Din II. The village is also home to several churches, mosques, and other historical sites that make it a popular tourist destination. Here are 10 things to do in Deir el Qamar, Lebanon.
1. Visit Our Lady of the Fortress: Our Lady of the Fortress is a 16th-century fortress built by the Druze prince Fakhr-ed-Din II. The fortress is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its intricate architecture and stunning views of the Chouf Mountains. Visitors can explore the fortress and its grounds, which include a museum, a garden, and a chapel.
2. Explore the Village: Deir el Qamar is a picturesque village with narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Visitors can explore the village and its many shops, cafes, and restaurants. There are also several churches and mosques to explore, as well as the ruins of a 15th-century castle.
3. Visit the Monastery of Our Lady of the Valley: The Monastery of Our Lady of the Valley is a 16th-century monastery located in the village of Deir el Qamar. The monastery is home to a number of religious artifacts, including a painting of the Virgin Mary and a relic of St. John the Baptist. Visitors can also explore the monastery's gardens and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Deir el Qamar is home to a variety of traditional restaurants and cafes. Visitors can try the local cuisine, which includes dishes such as kibbeh, shawarma, and tabbouleh. There are also several bakeries and sweet shops where visitors can sample traditional desserts.
5. Take a Hike: Deir el Qamar is surrounded by the Chouf Mountains, making it an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can take a hike in the surrounding mountains and enjoy the stunning views of the area. There are also several trails for visitors to explore, including the Bekaa Valley and the Cedar Forest.
6. Visit the Souk: The Souk is a traditional market located in the heart of Deir el Qamar. Visitors can browse the stalls and purchase a variety of items, including spices, jewelry, and traditional clothing. The Souk is also home to several local restaurants, where visitors can sample the local cuisine.
7. Visit the Museum of Fakhr-ed-Din II: The Museum of Fakhr-ed-Din II is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the Druze prince who built the Our Lady of the Fortress. The museum houses a variety of artifacts, including manuscripts, coins, and jewelry. Visitors can also explore the museum's gardens and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
8. Take a Tour of the Village: Visitors can take a guided tour of the village and explore its many attractions. The tour includes visits to the Our Lady of the Fortress, the Monastery of Our Lady of the Valley, and the Museum of Fakhr-ed-Din II. Visitors can also learn about the village's history and culture and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
9. Enjoy the Local Festivals: Deir el Qamar is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of the Valley and the Festival of the Fortress. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, as well as sample the local cuisine.
10. Visit the Local Wineries: Deir el Qamar is home to several wineries, where visitors can sample some of the region's finest wines. Visitors can also take a tour of the wineries and learn about the winemaking process.