On September 3, 1904, Patriarch Elias Peter Hoayek laid the cornerstone for a monument that would become Lebanon's most recognizable Marian shrine. Three years later, on May 5, 1907, thousands gathered on a rocky hilltop 650 meters above Jounieh Bay as a 13-ton bronze statue of the Virgin Mary—her arms outstretched toward Beirut—was blessed and erected. The Sanctuaire de Notre-Dame du Liban was born, though few could have imagined it would become a pilgrimage destination drawing not only Catholic faithful but Druze, Muslims, and Orthodox Christians seeking Mary's intercession.
The statue itself measures 8.5 meters tall with a 5-meter diameter, cast in bronze in Lyon, France, and shipped to Lebanon in pieces. Our Lady stands with her hands extended in a gesture of welcome and protection, her gaze turned toward the capital city and the Mediterranean beyond. At her feet, pilgrims have carved their prayers into the white stone terrace, adding their voices to more than a century of supplication.
What makes Harissa unique in the landscape of Catholic pilgrimage is its profound interfaith appeal. Lebanese of all religious traditions ascend the mountain—many via the dramatic nine-minute cable car ride from Jounieh—to light candles, leave petitions, and seek blessings. During the Civil War (1975-1990), the shrine became a symbol of Lebanese resilience, never closing its doors despite the violence in the valleys below.
📜 History & Spiritual Significance
The story of Harissa begins not with construction but with devotion. In the late 19th century, Maronite Patriarch Elias Hoayek envisioned a shrine that would serve Lebanon's scattered Catholic communities and proclaim Mary's maternal protection over the entire nation. The site chosen—a barren hilltop known as Harissa (from the Arabic word for "forest guard")—offered commanding views of the coast from Beirut to Byblos.
French architect M. Ponsard designed the statue, which was fabricated by the Gillet & Fils foundry in Lyon. Financing came from donations collected throughout Lebanon and from Maronite diaspora communities in Egypt, Syria, and the Americas. The statue's journey from France to Lebanon became itself a minor pilgrimage: shipped to Beirut harbor, transported by ox cart to Jounieh, then hauled up the mountainside in sections by teams of laborers using rope and timber scaffolding.
The consecration ceremony on May 5, 1907, drew an estimated 50,000 pilgrims—an astonishing number for a country whose total population at the time was under 500,000. Patriarch Hoayek celebrated the dedicatory Mass, and the statue was formally entrusted to the Congregation of Maronite Lebanese Missionaries, who continue to administer the shrine today.
In 1970, on the golden jubilee of the shrine, Patriarch Paul-Pierre Meouchi laid the foundation stone for a new basilica to accommodate the growing crowds. The Basilique Notre-Dame du Liban, completed in 1975, features a stunning mosaic dome depicting scenes from Mary's life and a circular nave that holds over 3,000 worshipers. The basilica's modern design—all soaring concrete and brilliant mosaics—contrasts dramatically with the 19th-century bronze statue it encircles, creating a dialogue between tradition and renewal.
Pope John Paul II visited Harissa on May 10, 1997, during his pastoral journey to Lebanon. From the basilica's balcony overlooking the Mediterranean, he addressed a crowd of young people, calling Lebanon "a message of freedom and an example of pluralism for East and West." That apostolic visit, coming seven years after the end of the Civil War, reinforced Harissa's status as a site of national unity and reconciliation.
The shrine's spiritual significance extends beyond its architectural grandeur. For Maronite Catholics, it represents the apex of devotion to Mary under the title Sayyidet Lubnan (Our Lady of Lebanon), a patronage formally recognized by Pope Pius XII in 1954. For other Lebanese Christians, it serves as a pilgrimage site rivaling even the ancient monasteries of the Qadisha Valley. And for Muslims and Druze—who honor Mary (Maryam) as a prophet and blessed mother in the Quran—Harissa offers neutral sacred ground where interreligious prayer is not only tolerated but welcomed.
☩ Pilgrimage Sites in Harissa
Statue of Our Lady of Lebanon
The 13-ton bronze statue stands 8.5 meters tall, her arms extended in welcome over Jounieh Bay. Pilgrims ascend a white stone staircase to the statue's base, where votive candles flicker day and night and marble plaques bear prayers inscribed in Arabic, French, and English. The terrace offers panoramic views of the coastline—on clear days, you can see Beirut's skyline to the south and the ancient port of Byblos to the north. Many pilgrims circle the statue clockwise while praying the Rosary, pausing at cardinal points to face the sea, the mountains, the capital, and the valley.
Basilica of Notre-Dame du Liban
Completed in 1975, the basilica encircles the statue with a modern circular nave featuring a brilliant mosaic dome and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Mediterranean. The interior mosaics, crafted by Lebanese and Italian artists, depict the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, and Assumption in vibrant golds and blues. Daily Mass is celebrated in Arabic (Maronite Rite) at 10:30 AM, with additional services on Sundays at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 12:00 PM. Confessions are available before each Mass. The basilica's acoustics are renowned—pilgrims arriving during sung liturgy often describe the experience as otherworldly, with Syriac chant echoing beneath the dome.
The lower chapel, dedicated to St. Charbel, houses relics of the Lebanese saint and serves as a quieter prayer space. Pilgrims leave written petitions in a wooden box near the altar; these are prayed over daily by the resident missionaries.
Teleferique (Cable Car)
The dramatic approach to Harissa begins not at the shrine but 650 meters below, at the Jounieh Bay cable car station. Opened in 1965, the Teleferique traverses 1.5 kilometers in nine minutes, ascending from sea level to the hilltop in enclosed gondolas that hold up to six passengers. The ride offers breathtaking views of Jounieh's crescent bay, the coastline, and the statue growing larger as you ascend. The cable car operates year-round (except during severe weather) from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM weekdays, extended to 10:00 PM on weekends and holidays. Round-trip fare is approximately 10,000 LBP (check current rates due to currency fluctuations).
Maronite Patriarchal See of Bkerke
Located approximately 10 kilometers south of Harissa, the Patriarchal See of Bkerke serves as the official residence of the Maronite Patriarch and the administrative heart of the Maronite Church. While not part of the Harissa shrine complex, many pilgrims combine visits to both sites. The 19th-century monastery features a museum displaying patriarchal vestments, ancient manuscripts, and gifts from visiting popes. The complex is open to pilgrims by appointment; visitors should dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees).
🕯️ Annual Feast Days & Celebrations
Feast of Our Lady of Lebanon — First Sunday of May
The principal feast day at Harissa commemorates the statue's consecration on May 5, 1907. Celebrated on the first Sunday of May, the feast draws upwards of 1.5 million pilgrims during the month, with the peak on the Sunday itself. Pontifical Mass is celebrated by the Maronite Patriarch, typically beginning at 10:00 AM, followed by a procession carrying a smaller replica of the statue around the terrace. Pilgrims traditionally wear white and bring bouquets of white roses to offer at Mary's feet. The celebration extends throughout May, traditionally considered Mary's month in Catholic devotion, with special novenas, evening Rosaries, and candlelight processions on Saturdays.
Feast of the Assumption — August 15
The Assumption is celebrated with particular solemnity at Harissa, as it is a holy day of obligation in Lebanon. Mass is offered hourly from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and the shrine remains open until midnight. Many pilgrims undertake a walking pilgrimage from Jounieh or nearby villages, arriving at dawn to attend the first Mass. Evening prayers include the chanting of the Akathistos Hymn to the Theotokos, reflecting the Eastern Christian heritage of the Maronite liturgy.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception — December 8
This feast, marking Mary's conception without original sin, is observed with a solemn Mass at 11:00 AM and special prayers for Lebanon's protection. The day coincides with the beginning of Advent preparations, and the shrine is decorated with white lilies and blue banners. The celebration is particularly meaningful for Maronite Catholics, as the Immaculate Conception is considered a theological anticipation of the Incarnation—a theme central to Syriac theology.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Bay Lodge Boutique Hotel (boutique hotel) — Perched on the Harissa hilltop adjacent to the shrine, this boutique hotel offers 15 suites, each with a spa tub and panoramic Mediterranean views stretching from Beirut to Byblos. The rooftop terrace overlooks the statue, making it ideal for pilgrims seeking proximity to the sanctuary. Breakfast included, outdoor pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Walking distance to the basilica. Website ∙ Reserve this hotel
Al Murjan Palace Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Located in Jounieh's tourist district with panoramic views of the Mediterranean and Mount Harissa, Al Murjan Palace features an outdoor pool, spa facilities, and a rooftop terrace. The hotel offers free parking and Wi-Fi, making it convenient for pilgrims driving to Harissa or taking the cable car from the nearby Jounieh waterfront. 20-minute drive to the shrine, 5 minutes to the Teleferique station. Website ∙ Reserve this hotel
Portaluna Hotel & Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — This five-star resort in Jounieh features rooms with sweeping views of the bay and the illuminated Harissa statue at night. Amenities include an outdoor pool, open-plan fitness center, sauna, Jacuzzi, and Lebanese restaurant. The beach is 200 meters from the property. Full board packages available. Ideal for pilgrims combining shrine visits with a seaside retreat. Cable car station is a 10-minute walk. Website ∙ Reserve this hotel
Pilgrim Guesthouse of the Maronite Missionaries (pilgrim accommodation) — Simple, clean rooms operated by the missionaries who administer the shrine. Accommodates up to 40 pilgrims in dormitory-style and private rooms. Breakfast included, communal kitchen available. Priority given to organized pilgrimage groups; individual pilgrims should call ahead. Donation-based pricing (suggested contribution 30,000-50,000 LBP per night). Contact the shrine office at +961 9 930 150 for reservations.
🚗 Getting There
By Air: Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) is 30 kilometers south of Harissa, approximately 30-45 minutes by taxi or private car depending on traffic. Taxis from the airport to Harissa cost approximately $25-35 USD (negotiate fare in advance or use a meter). Ride-sharing services (Uber, Careem) operate between the airport and Jounieh.
Local Transport: The Teleferique (cable car) departs from the Jounieh Bay waterfront station, offering a scenic nine-minute ride to the Harissa hilltop. Round-trip fare is approximately 10,000 LBP (subject to currency fluctuations). Operating hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM weekdays, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM weekends and holidays. Teleferique website
By Bus: Public buses and shared minivans (service taxis) operate between Beirut's Charles Helou bus station and Jounieh (approximately 45 minutes, fare 2,000-3,000 LBP). From Jounieh, take a local taxi or the cable car to Harissa. Private tour buses are available through pilgrimage tour operators in Beirut.
By Car: From Beirut, take the coastal highway north (Route 51) toward Jounieh. Exit at the Harissa/Jounieh turnoff and follow signs uphill to the shrine (approximately 12 km of winding mountain roads). Parking is available at the shrine complex (free). The drive from Beirut takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. GPS coordinates: 33.990000, 35.640000.
On Foot: Pilgrims occasionally walk from Jounieh to Harissa via the old mountain path, a steep 6-kilometer ascent taking 2-3 hours. The trail is not well-marked; local guidance is recommended. Some pilgrimage groups undertake this walk during the May feast, departing Jounieh at dawn.
📚 Further Reading
Joseph Azize. An Introduction to the Maronite Faith — Comprehensive introduction to Maronite theology, liturgy, and spirituality.
Seely J. Beggiani. Early Syriac Theology: With Special Reference to the Maronite Tradition — Scholarly exploration of the Syriac theological roots underlying Maronite Marian devotion.
Paul Abraham. The Maronites of Lebanon, the Staunch Catholics of the Near East — Historical survey of the Maronite Church from its origins to the twentieth century.
Online Resources:
Our Lady of Lebanon Official Shrine Website — Mass schedules, history, and pilgrim information.
Vatican Archives: Pope John Paul II's 1997 Lebanon Visit — Full texts of papal addresses from the Harissa pilgrimage.
Maronite Patriarchate Official Site — Information about the Maronite Church and diocesan news.
🔗 Useful Links
Teleferique du Liban (Cable Car) — Official site with hours, fares, and booking information.
Lebanon Ministry of Tourism — National tourism resources and travel advisories.
Maronite Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon (USA) — North American Maronite community.
🥾 Pilgrim Routes
Darb Mar Charbel — Lebanon's first long-distance pilgrimage trail, inaugurating in 2026, stretches 130 kilometers from the Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya in the Qadisha Valley to the Harissa Sanctuary. The route passes through approximately 40 villages, connecting monasteries and shrines associated with St. Charbel Makhlouf (1828-1898), Lebanon's most beloved modern saint. Key stops include Bqaa Kafra (St. Charbel's birthplace), Annaya (his monastery and tomb), and culminates at Harissa. Designed for 8-10 days of walking, the trail offers immersion in Maronite spirituality and Lebanon's mountain landscapes. Trail information and maps: darbmarcharbel.org
🧭 Nearby Pilgrimage Destinations
Annaya (40 km northeast) — The Monastery of St. Charbel Makhlouf, where the miracle-working Maronite saint lived as a hermit and is now entombed.
Byblos (Jbeil) (30 km north) — One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, featuring Crusader churches, Phoenician temples, and a medieval harbor. The Church of St. John the Baptist (12th century) is built atop Roman and Byzantine ruins. UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Qadisha Valley (65 km northeast) — The "Holy Valley," a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with ancient Maronite monasteries clinging to cliffsides. Home to the Monastery of Qozhaya, where the first Arabic printing press in the Middle East was established in 1610, and numerous hermit caves.
Jerusalem (220 km south) — The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Via Dolorosa, and Mount of Olives.
🪶 Closing Reflection
"Lebanon is more than a country; it is a message of freedom and an example of pluralism for East and West... May Our Lady of Lebanon watch over you always." — Pope John Paul II, Greeting from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Harissa, May 10, 1997
