Free Entry To Museums Across Lebanon For International Museum Day

The Ministry of Culture has announced that entry to the National Museum in Beirut and archaeological sites across the country will be free from Thursday, May 18 until Sunday, May 21 in celebration of International Museum Day. Minister of Culture Mohammad Mortada made the announcement during a press conference at the National Museum on Wednesday.

The first International Museum Day was held on May 18, 1977 at the invitation of the International Council of Museums. According to the council’s website, the objective of this day “is to raise awareness about the fact that museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.”

This year’s theme is “Museums, Sustainability and Wellbeing.”

Lebanon’s trove of historical artifacts showcase the various different civilizations and people that have called this land home. With centuries of human activity across its soil, a densely packed day of culture awaits the willing enthusiast. So what are you waiting for? Make some time, plan a schedule, and dive into the incredible cultural history (for free!) this weekend.

Lebanon’s National Museum remains one of this country’s icons, despite years of under-funding and maintenance, and it will definitely be worth a trip if you have the time.

If you’re looking to whet your appetite with some historical background before you go on your free trips, you can check out some of these great historical snapshots from our website:

The Curious Stories of the Crusader Counts of Tripoli

Alexander The Great Captures Tyre

The 1759 Earthquake That Destroyed Baalbek

Happy International Museum Day everyone!