Nestled within Lebanon’s picturesque villages, ancient practices persist, upholding the nation’s heritage.
These enduring traditions serve as captivating windows into Lebanon’s history, offering glimpses of the resilience and cultural treasures that have been cherished for generations.
Kibbeh Nayyeh
Originating in the late 13th century during the Mamluk invasion, Kibbeh Nayyeh reflects the survival instincts of the Lebanese people.
Faced with danger, they embraced raw meat mixed with bulgur to avoid revealing their location through cooking as it would release smoke.
Today, our BBQ gatherings are quite common and symbolize not just the joy of food but the celebration of freedom and unity, honoring the endurance of our ancestors.
Keshek Making in Bchaaleh
The village of Bchaaleh honors the tradition of keshek, a fermented mixture of bulgur and yogurt. Villagers gather annually for the Keshek Festival, grinding wheat and forming it into patties to be sun-dried and stored for winter stews.
Anfeh’s Salt Flats
The coastal village of Anfeh maintains its 300-year-old salt-making practice. Seawater is channeled into shallow pools to evaporate through the summer, leaving behind pure salt that is harvested using wooden rakes.
Lebanon’s Finest Wineries
Château Ksara, Zahle
Zahle, Lebanon’s wine hub, proudly preserves its ancient winemaking techniques. Family-owned vineyards dot the landscape, producing time-honored wines and Arak, a traditional anise-flavored spirit.
“Château Ksara,” the oldest winery in Lebanon with roots dating back to 1857, preserves the essence of ancient winemaking techniques. This iconic winery offers a taste of history through its meticulously crafted wines, inviting you to savor the flavors of Lebanon’s vinicultural heritage.
Château Musar, Ghazir
Founded in 1930 by Gaston Hochar, Chateau Musar is another iconic winery in Lebanon. It gained international recognition for its unique and traditional winemaking methods, as well as its ability to produce wines that age exceptionally well.
Domaine des Tourelles, Bekaa
Dating back to 1868, Domaine des Tourelles is one of the oldest boutique wineries in Lebanon. It has a history of producing artisanal wines with a focus on indigenous grape varieties and traditional techniques.
Beit Chabab’s Stone Cutting
In the mountain village of Beit Chabab, stone-cutting skills passed down for generations have shaped Lebanon’s historical landmarks. The rhythmic clinking of chisels can still be heard as artisans craft intricate stone designs. This, along with handmade crafting and clay techniques.
Tannour Bread in Rachaya Al Foukhar
In the village of Rachaya Al Foukhar, the tradition of tannour bread-making is upheld. Villagers bake dough against the fiery walls of the tannour oven, producing rustic, aromatic loaves enjoyed by all.
Deir El Qamar’s Sword Dance
Deir El Qamar’s Sword Dance Festival brings to life an ancient tradition. Dancers wielding swords perform harmoniously, commemorating a historic victory and symbolizing unity among the villagers.
Soap Crafting
Khan Al Saboun, Tripoli
Khan Al Saboun, nestled in the heart of Tripoli’s historic district, proudly continues the time-honored tradition of soap crafting, an art that has flourished since its establishment in 1480.
This remarkable establishment stands as a testament to Lebanon’s enduring cultural heritage.
Soap Museum, Sidon
The city of Saida (Sidon) also has a soap-making heritage. The Saida Soap Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and techniques of soap production in the region. The Saida Soap Museum was established in 2000 to showcase the history of soap making in the region and the techniques involved.
It showcases the various stages of soap making, from raw materials to finished products, and provides insights into the cultural significance of soap in Lebanese society.
Soap Factory, Akkar
Located in Akkar, a region in northern Lebanon, this soap factory has been producing olive oil-based soap using traditional methods for generations. It’s a prime example of how soap-making has been an integral part of rural Lebanese communities.
These ancient traditions remind us that Lebanon’s soul lies in its villages, where the past is not just revered, but actively kept alive. As these practices flourish, they weave a vibrant tapestry connecting the modern Lebanese identity with its illustrious history.
Related: 15+ Nostalgic Pictures Of The Old Lebanon We Want Back
