10 Things to Do in St. John-Marc Church Jbail Lebanon
Nestled in the picturesque mountain village of Jbail, Lebanon, St. John-Marc Church is a stunningly beautiful and historically important religious site. Built in the late 19th century, the church is an iconic example of the traditional Lebanese architecture, with its intricately carved stone façade and colorful stained-glass windows. Whether you’re a religious pilgrim, a history buff, or simply an admirer of beautiful architecture, St. John-Marc Church is a must-see destination. Here are 10 things to do when you visit:
1. Take a guided tour: A guided tour of St. John-Marc Church is the best way to learn about its history and appreciate its beauty. The tour will take you through the church’s interior, where you’ll see its stunning stained-glass windows, its ornate wood carvings, and its impressive stone façade.
2. Attend a service: St. John-Marc Church is an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to attend a service. Services are held in Arabic, but the church also offers English translations for those who don’t understand the language.
3. Explore the grounds: The church is set in a beautiful garden, complete with olive trees, rose bushes, and a fountain. Take a stroll around the grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
4. Visit the crypt: The crypt of St. John-Marc Church is one of the most interesting parts of the building. Here, you’ll find the remains of some of Lebanon’s most important religious figures, including the first Maronite Patriarch and several bishops.
5. Check out the bell tower: The bell tower of St. John-Marc Church is one of its most iconic features. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower to get a beautiful view of the surrounding area.
6. Take a photo: St. John-Marc Church is one of the most photographed sites in Lebanon, and it’s easy to see why. Take a few snaps of the building’s impressive façade and its beautiful stained-glass windows.
7. Stop for a bite to eat: St. John-Marc Church is located in the heart of Jbail, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby. Stop for a bite to eat and enjoy some of the local cuisine.
8. Shop for souvenirs: St. John-Marc Church is a popular destination for tourists, and there are plenty of souvenir shops nearby. Pick up a few souvenirs to take home with you.
9. Visit the nearby museum: The nearby Museum of Jbail is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the area. The museum is home to a wide range of artifacts, including ancient pottery, coins, and jewelry.
10. Attend a festival: St. John-Marc Church is the site of several festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of St. John-Marc in July and the Festival of the Cross in October. Attending one of these festivals is a great way to experience the local culture and get a taste of Lebanese hospitality.
Whether you’re a religious pilgrim, a history buff, or simply an admirer of beautiful architecture, St. John-Marc Church is a must-see destination in Lebanon. Take a guided tour, attend a service, explore the grounds, visit the crypt, check out the bell tower, take photos, stop for a bite to eat, shop for souvenirs, visit the nearby museum, and attend a festival. There’s something for everyone at St. John-Marc Church.