Restoration of Mar Mikhael Train Station Officially Underway

Public Works Minister Fayez Rasamny officially kicked off the restoration of Beirut’s historic Mar Mikhael train station on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

Alongside Culture Minister Ghassan Salameh, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, and Italian Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Silvia Tosi, he laid the foundation stone for the long-awaited project.

The Mar Mikhael Train Station: A Historic Landmark

Dating back to 1895, the train station served as a crucial hub in Lebanon’s railway network. It connected Beirut to Damascus and Haifa, but ceased operations in 1948 after the Nakba. This event disrupted the station’s role as a vital link between Beirut, Damascus, and Haifa.

Subsequent to this, train services continued between various Lebanese regions until they were halted entirely during the Lebanese Civil War from 1975 to 1990. The station has remained neglected since then.

The €2 Million Restoration Project

In July 2023, UNESCO and Italy signed an agreement to finance its restoration and rehabilitation, mobilizing €2 million.

The project aims to preserve the station’s industrial heritage and transform it into a cultural landmark. This includes creating a green public space and providing a platform for social connection, cultural experience, and artistic creativity.

For more updates like this, make sure to check out the #News section on our website.

MORE LIKE THIS

Buongiorno Beirut! There’s A New Italian Restaurant in the City

New Italian spot 🇮🇹✨ with indoor dining and outdoor Mediterranean views (yes, shisha is available!).