The Tale of Donna Maria Sursock Palace in Sawfar

The Sursock family’s legacy, characterized by their opulent residences and the upscale Sursock neighborhood in Beirut, extended beyond Beirut to the charming town of Sawfar. Renowned for its impressive villas and mansions during the 1960s, Sawfar is home to the fascinating Donna Maria Sursock Palace. Let’s delve into its captivating history together!

The Backstory of Donna Maria Palace:

Donna Maria Sursock Palace is a historic gem nestled in Sawfar, originally constructed in 1909 by Alfred Sursock as a heartfelt gift for his beloved wife, Donna Maria Sursock. This splendid edifice served as the Sursock family’s idyllic summer retreat in the mountains, where they enjoyed summer days in the serene beauty of the region until 1975—the year that marked the onset of the Lebanese Civil War. The palace’s unique architectural design is a sight to behold, evoking the enchanting castles of fairy tales with its artistic embellishments, majestic arches, spacious halls, and enchanting gardens. Unsurprisingly, it captured the attention and admiration of many.

Image retrieved from Old Beirut Lebanon.

The Sursock family’s influence in Sawfar also extended to the Grand Hotel Sawfar, a historic establishment erected in 1890. Situated opposite Sawfar’s railway station, this hotel holds a pivotal place in Lebanon’s historical hotels. It beckoned tourists, artists, and politicians from across the Arab world and beyond.

During the Lebanese Civil War, both the Grand Hotel and Donna Maria Palace sustained severe damage from looting and destruction. They did, however, remain symbols and emblems of the elite and bourgeoisie at the time.  

Why was Sawfar significant back then?

Sawfar’s prominence as a destination can be traced back to the Ottoman construction of a railway in 1880, linking Beirut to the Bekaa Valley. Thanks to its picturesque mountain setting, serene natural beauty, and captivating views of the Lamartine Valley, Sawfar became a coveted summer haven for Lebanon’s aristocratic families. The Sursock family’s palatial contributions and luxurious villas played a pivotal role in shaping this transformation. This ultimately led to the establishment of Grand Hotel Sawfar, which, in time, became Lebanon’s inaugural casino and drew a diverse array of Arab artists and foreign tourists. The hotel reopened to host exhibitions and events in 2018.

The Palace today…

Even after the palace fell into ruin, it continues to draw enthusiastic visitors and artists who love history and architecture. After the renovation of its entrance and gardens, the palace now is a space for weddings and special occasions, a significant step towards its complete restoration in the future. 

For more information, contact Donna Maria Sursock Palace at 01 218 720. Don’t forget to check out their Facebook Page. 

Delve into Lebanon’s rich past in our Historical Snapshots section here.