Beirut's central square with the bullet-riddled Martyrs' Monument and the mosque beside it.
Martyrs' Square has been the heart of Beirut since Ottoman times and takes its name from the nationalists executed there in 1916. A bronze Martyrs' Monument, scarred by civil-war gunfire, stands at its centre and is the most photographed object in the square. The area was a no-man's-land on the Green Line and has since been rebuilt, with the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and Saint George Maronite Cathedral close to each other around the plaza. It has also been the centre of mass demonstrations in 2005 and 2019. Visitors should check the news before visiting and avoid the square during protests. The nearby Souks and Roman Baths make easy follow-ups on foot.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open air, accessible at any hour |
| Typical visit | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Best time | Mid-morning or late afternoon |
| Getting there | Taxi to Martyrs' Square; on foot from Beirut Souks or Nijmeh Square (5 to 10 minutes) |
| Address | Martyrs' Square, Downtown, Beirut |
Location
Martyrs' Square, Downtown, Beirut
33.8966, 35.5069 View on map
Highlights
- Bullet-scarred Martyrs' Monument
- Mosque and cathedral near each other
- Site of civil-war and protest history
- Close to Beirut Souks
Tips for visiting
- Avoid the square during demonstrations.
- Combine with the mosque, cathedral and Roman Baths.
- Visit in the morning; there is little shade.
- Photograph the monument from the south edge.
When to visit
Mid-morning on weekdays.
Accessibility
Flat paved square.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called Martyrs' Square?
For the nationalists executed there in 1916.
Is it free?
Yes.
Is it safe?
Generally, but avoid protest days.