CAZA:

Metn
700m

Etymology:

Syriac origin, "Beit Shboba", meaning "the neighbor's house"

Beit Chabab is one of the largest villages in the Metn, and yet it has preserved its traditional aspect and craftsmanship through the generations. This well-wooded village, surrounded by a beautiful pine forest, is characterized by its many traditional houses and old churches, namely Saydet el-Ghabeh which dates back to 1761. Beit Chabab is particularly famous for its traditional crafts of pottery, weaving and bellfounding, a craft introduced in Lebanon by the Russians in 1700. It has the only bell foundry in Lebanon and exports its bells to Jordan and Syria. This typical village where families have succeeded in perpetuating a Lebanese know-how in distress is a beautiful example of beauty and success.

Must-do things
Architectural Heritage
  • Saydet el-Ghabeh church built in 1761
  • Mar Boutros convent
  • Mar Antonios al-Kabir church built in 1785
  • Mar Youhanna church with its hundred-year-old oak
  • Mar Jeryes Bherdok convent
  • Mar Youssef church
  • Saydet el-Kobra church
  • The municipality, originally a school built in 1904
Natural Heritage
  • The pine forest surrounding the village
Cultural Heritage
  • The bell foundry, a unique craft in Lebanon  which could be visited in Nafaa workshop
  • The traditional craft of pottery found in Fakhoury’s workshop
  • The textile production, also called Dima, in Rachid’s workshop
  • The local culinary specialty: Fatayer (Lebanese patties) with tomatoes; Shamamit (eggs and onions in hot yogurt); Moujadara bel foul (puree of beans)
Where To Eat
  • Mounir: A home-made Lebanese cuisine in an authentic atmosphere, located in Beit Chabab

Adresses in the neighboring village of Bikfaya:

  • Tallet Nasr: a tasty and generous Lebanese cuisine on the heights of Naas forest. A special mention for the warm setting in winter at the corner of the fireplace and the summer terrace surrounded by a beautiful pine forest.
  • Fadel: an inventive Lebanese cuisine that establishes the reputation of this true institution. A high-end restaurant on the heights of Naas forest.
  • Lola: a savory European cuisine in an alpine atmosphere on the heights of Naas forest, with a terrace that has panoramic views in summer. A special mention for its pierrade, fondue and its fine wine  selection.
  • Le Gourmet: A snack at the entry of Bikfaya village, famous for its delicious grilled chicken sandwiches with mashed garlic and pickles.
  • Locanda Corsini: Located on the heights of the Naas Forest, this restaurant offers a fine selection of Italian dishes in a most pleasant setting.
Nearby sites and villages
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