L'Artisan du Liban is a social movement whose vision is to keep culture alive and artisans active, as they claim on their website. They were established during the civil war by an NGO. Their purpose is to promote artisans from all over Lebanon, mainly villages and rural areas. They claim having saved 4 crafts from extinction, supporting more than 1000 artisans and offering more than 3000 items. They definitely are preserving Lebanese cultural heritage. The shop is not only for tourists and visitors looking for souvenirs. I usually buy gifts even for my local friends or nice crafted artistic elements for my house.
You can find small souvenir items for just a few dollars, such as keychains, earrings, bracelets, magnets... But you can also find homeware- decorations, tableware, mugs and cups and fashion as well. I remember I bought two stone coasters for my parents with the pictures of old Beirut on them. For my sister, I got a silver pendant in the form of a Lebanese. What is worth attention are the tablecloths -- I got some for myself too. And I really love the set of colorful silicone coasters with arabesque motives, the style combines the modern material with old traditional design.
The prices range from 6000 LBP (ca. 6$) for a keychain to more expensive items, some jewelry reaching more than $50. I believe it is worth supporting the cause and getting a unique gift inspired by local culture and made by locals.
Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
It's like walking inside a snuggled Aladdin cave full of gems, and you want to get your hands on all of them.
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"Beyt Sirena" is a coffeeshop in one of my favorite areas of the old Beirut. I love the vast floor-to-ceiling windows, and you should try their sahlab...
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"Das Küche" is a must-visit spot in Beirut if you like real German or Polish sausages (more than 15 types!) and beer. Remember to bring cash!
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The texture of these stuffed flatbreads is slightly crisp and flaky, with a hint of sweetness that you will seriously regret not trying...
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Located under USJ's grounds on Damascus street, this Museum is a must-go especially if you're a huge fan of stones and geology like myself!
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Located on a rooftop in Hamra, Pool D'etat is an affordable pool by day and a very nice place to grab a drink or dinner by the pool at night...
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"Onomatopoeia Beirut" is a calm and cozy café that feels like home to everyone that visits, the space exists for all musicians and creatives to hang out...
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"Flat White" in Beirut with their modbar is the first presented in any coffee shop here in Lebanon! Great if you're a coffee geek...
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"Neighbourhood" in Beirut is a cafe that puts you among up-cycled furniture and a paster-color ambience. Come for a cup of their home-blend latte!
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I enjoy going to "Gibran Khalil Gibran Garden" in downtown Beirut - I admire the sculptures done by Saloua Raouda Choucair and the trees & benches...
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The "Memory Tree" is the only standing memorial to the famine that Mount Lebanon suffered from 1915 till 1918. It's covered in Arabic calligraphy...
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179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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