Known
for its different trade of artisanal objects and silk, during the last century,
Zouk Mikael souk was the heartbeat of the city.
The "Old Souk", the very typical Lebanese architecture, was built during the
El Khazen family's feudality to suit the needs of the trade activities (mulberry
plantation, and the silk manufacture and trade).
The Souk (capital of the El Khazen's province) was known for being the trading
center for silk. Its shops (around 400 looms "nawl" before WWI) were known
for their meticulous and artistic handcrafts and textile work, as well as
for several activities and crafts such as the shoemaking and the jewelry manufactures
and trade.
The Old Souk was neglected during the Lebanese war (1975-1990). But in 1988
the restoration started, in order to convert it into a touristic area amidst
Byblos, Jeita Grotto and Beirut. The restoration was necessary to reveal the
historic face and value of Zouk Mikael by its ancestors, work and tradition.
The restoration offered also a night life for tourists where they can dine,
dance and spend the evening in restaurants, terrace, gardens……
 |
|
Old
Souk entrance
|
 |
|
Old
Souk road
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Old
Souk road
|
Old
Municipality Building
|
Get
a break with special view
|
 |
 |
|
|
Special
View in Souk
|
Special
View
|
 |
 |
|
Souk
shops
|
Old
Souk Nights
|