As part of the LiBeirut initiative, UNESCO has announced a new funding agreement with the Swiss Federal Office of Culture and the Sursock Palace Association to fund the initial phase of the Sursock Palace’s rehabilitation.
Built by Moussa Sursock, the Sursock Palace is an iconic landmark in Beirut, as it dates from 1860. The historical building was severely damaged by the Beirut port explosion on August 4, 2020.
This funding will enable UNESCO to restore “the lost structural continuity of the building,” as the organization will start working in the most affected areas, mainly the northern side of the iconic palace.
Additionally, the Sursock Palace Association will also progressively open the palace to the public as a private museum and a cultural hub.
It is worth noting that the palace is one of Lebanon’s largest residences dating back to the Ottoman era. After a century of its construction, the Lebanese Ministry of Culture listed the residence as a building of historical importance.
Despite suffering from great damage during the Lebanese civil war, the building re-opened to the public in 2010 after undergoing a 20-year restoration, however, it was damaged yet again after the Beirut blast.
This video shows the aftermath of the explosion on the Sursock Palace:
Related: Everything You Need To Know About Lebanese Philanthropist Lady Sursock
