Tripoli’s Legendary Colorado Cinema Is Closing Its Doors
Tripoli’s golden age back in the 1950s was reflected in its vibrant cultural scene, with theaters, cafes, and cinemas that drew crowds from across the city and beyond. It was a time when creativity filled the streets, and the Colorado Cinema stood at the heart of it all.
Recently, its closure was officially announced by Elias Khlat, founder and director of the Tripoli Film Festival, marking the end of an era for one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The theater was designed by the late engineer George Doumani to reflect the lively city. Under its iconic dome, the Colorado could seat around 900 guests. Its stage welcomed some of the most iconic directors in history, including Tripoli-born director Georges Nasser. He premiered his groundbreaking film Where To? (Ila Ayn?) back in 1957. Did you know that this film was the first-ever Lebanese film selected at the Cannes Film Festival? You can read all about it here.
Now, in the digital age, the Colorado is quietly stepping into history. Official oversight is nearly absent, and generations of iconic buildings have crumbled while the public watches in silence. The Colorado’s closure is a reminder that cultural landmarks represent memory, pride, and identity.
As Tripoli says goodbye to one of its most beloved theaters, the question remains: how will we protect what’s left of our city’s heritage before it disappears completely?
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