Nohye Al Ard: Lebanon’s First Community Garden

Nohye Al Ard isn’t just a garden—it’s a living, breathing community in the heart of Saida. Run by a cooperative of around 40 people, this green space is all about growing food, sharing knowledge, and reconnecting with the land. At its core, Nohye Al Ard is a community that still sees the value of life in its purest form.

Did you know that it’s recognized as Lebanon’s first community garden? Here’s everything you should know about this wonderful green project.

How It Started

Nohye Al Ard began with a group of community members determined to restore a neglected plot of land. Once polluted and littered with waste, the space has since been transformed into a green sanctuary. It now offers a peaceful escape from the chaos of the city.

Inspired by the scenery and frustrated by the lack of public spaces, the idea of a community garden came naturally—like a missing puzzle piece finally falling into place.

It’s now a space where children grow up understanding the value of the food on their plates. They witness firsthand the care and effort it takes to nurture crops. The community behind the garden shares a deep passion for preserving natural resources and passing that awareness on to future generations.

Behind the Community

A documentary about the garden was posted on YouTube by Rana Mousa and Hiba Yassin in 2022. One community member shares an especially insightful story. Hala, an engineering student, spent five years treating each plot of land as a means to an end. But during her time at Nohye Al Ard, she discovered something many adults rarely stop to consider.

Surrounded by trees, flowers, and the smell of fresh produce, she realized that in the rush of adult responsibilities, we often forget the beauty that quietly surrounds us. Even the life of a grasshopper—seemingly insignificant to most—belongs to an entire ecosystem that thrives in places like Nohye Al Ard.

Farmer’s Market and Events

Every week, Nohye Al Ard hosts a farmers market, where the community sells home-grown crops and prepares fresh meals for visitors.

Families gather for picnics and quality time in nature, where children can roam freely. Musicians, artists, entertainers, and poets come together to exchange ideas and share their work.

Why It Matters

This community garden is all about reclaiming green spaces, promoting food sovereignty, and building local resilience. As Lebanon faces rising food insecurity and urban expansion, this garden sets a powerful example of what community-led solutions can look like.

There’s a kind of magic in communities like Nohye Al Ard. It’s a place where every life, no matter how small, holds meaning. Make sure to follow them on Instagram for updates and upcoming events!

Looking to reconnect with nature? Check out our article on Horshna: Beirut’s Only Forest School Is Breaking Down the Classroom Walls