Our Lady of Harissa
A sacred Marian shrine offering spiritual solace and breathtaking panoramic views of Jounieh Bay, symbolizing unity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Our Lady of Harissa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Marian shrine offering spiritual solace and breathtaking panoramic views of Jounieh Bay, symbolizing unity.
"A must-visit for its tranquility, stunning views, and powerful message of peace and unity."
Take the Cable Car 🚡
Ride the Teleferique for amazing views of Jounieh Bay on your way up.
Dress Respectfully 🙏
Cover shoulders and knees; cloaks are provided if needed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Statue of Our Lady
Top of the hill
An awe-inspiring statue of the Virgin Mary, arms outstretched, symbolizing protection over Lebanon.
Panoramic Jounieh Bay Views
Throughout the site
Breathtaking vistas of the coastline, city, and Mediterranean Sea, especially stunning at sunrise/sunset.
The Sanctuary and Church
Base of the statue
A peaceful place for worship and reflection, welcoming to all faiths with a respectful dress code.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Getting There: Views and Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Take the Cable Car 🚡
Ride the Teleferique for amazing views of Jounieh Bay on your way up.
Dress Respectfully 🙏
Cover shoulders and knees; cloaks are provided if needed.
Climb for the Best View 🗽️
Ascend the stairs to the statue for breathtaking, albeit high, panoramic views.
Embrace the Peace 🌿
This spiritual site offers tranquility and a sense of unity for all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Take the Cable Car 🚡
Ride the Teleferique for amazing views of Jounieh Bay on your way up.
Dress Respectfully 🙏
Cover shoulders and knees; cloaks are provided if needed.
Climb for the Best View 🗽️
Ascend the stairs to the statue for breathtaking, albeit high, panoramic views.
Embrace the Peace 🌿
This spiritual site offers tranquility and a sense of unity for all visitors.
Watch the Paragliders 🦁
See paragliders soaring at your level, adding a unique element to the scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Our Lady of Harissa for its profound sense of peace, stunning panoramic views of Jounieh Bay, and the impressive statue of the Virgin Mary. Many highlight its role as a symbol of unity and welcome for people of all faiths. Some find the climb to the top challenging if they have a fear of heights.
"When I visit Our Lady of Lebanon I feel the sanctity of the place in terms of its tranquility, cleanliness and gentle breeze. The statue of the Virgin Mary stands tall on top of the mountain with her arms open as if she is protecting Lebanon from all harm. I felt comfortable during this visit. You can reach Harissa by car or cable car. My advice to everyone who visits Lebanon is to make a visit to Harissa part of their itinerary. I highly recommend."
Luie
"Beautiful and peaceful place ⛪️ with stunning views over Jounieh Bay 🌊.
The statue is impressive up close, and the whole area feels calm and spiritual 🙏. Take the téléphérique up for an even better experience 🚡.
Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Lebanon 🇱🇧"
Zeina El Zein
"A wonderful place for both worship and site-seeing. reach by road or take the Teleferique Cable Car. The views from here are beautiful, especially of the Jounieh Bay. You can see Paragliders all around in air, who are at your level when at this spot. The church is mainly for worshippers but all are welcome provided they adhere to the dress code, cloaks are provided to cover up before entering. You can reach the Statue of Our Lady by climbing a few more steps on the staircase from where the view is breathtaking, but beware, not for people with fear of heights. A must see in Harissa"
Shaik Masood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Our Lady of Harissa by car, taxi, or the Teleferique cable car from Jounieh. The cable car offers spectacular views of Jounieh Bay and is highly recommended by visitors. +1
Yes, there is parking available at the site, though it can get busy during peak hours.
From Beirut, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a private driver. Alternatively, take a taxi to Jounieh and then catch the Teleferique cable car up to Harissa for a scenic journey.
Public transport options are limited directly to Harissa. It's more common to take a taxi to Jounieh and then use the Teleferique, or arrange a taxi for the entire journey from Beirut.
The drive up to Harissa itself offers beautiful views. However, the most celebrated scenic route is undoubtedly the Teleferique cable car ride from Jounieh.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and the church is generally free. However, there is a fee for the Teleferique cable car ride.
The site is typically open daily from morning until early evening. It's advisable to check specific hours closer to your visit, especially around religious holidays.
Tickets are not required for entry to the site itself. If you plan to use the Teleferique, you can purchase tickets on-site.
Yes, a modest dress code is expected out of respect for the religious nature of the site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Cloaks are available to borrow if needed.
Absolutely. Our Lady of Harissa is a place of peace and unity, welcoming visitors of all faiths. Many Muslim visitors have reported feeling welcomed and spiritually connected.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The panoramic views of Jounieh Bay are spectacular from various points. The base of the statue and the upper levels offer iconic shots. The Teleferique ride itself also provides incredible photo opportunities. +1
Photography is generally permitted on the grounds and outside the church. Inside the church, it's best to be discreet and respectful, and avoid flash photography.
Late afternoon during the golden hour offers beautiful lighting for both the statue and the bay views. Early mornings can also be lovely with fewer crowds.
Yes, it's common to see paragliders flying at your level, which can make for unique and dynamic photos.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to avoid using drones at religious and crowded sites without prior permission to ensure safety and respect.
🎫 🙏 Spiritual & Cultural Experience
It's a major Marian shrine and a symbol of unity and peace in Lebanon, revered by both Christians and Muslims. The statue is seen as a protector of the nation.
Yes, the church hosts regular masses and religious services. Visitors are welcome to attend, provided they adhere to the dress code and maintain a respectful demeanor.
The atmosphere is described as incredibly peaceful, tranquil, and spiritual. Many visitors feel a strong sense of comfort and humanity, regardless of their religious background.
While the views are stunning, the climb to the very top of the statue involves stairs and can be challenging for those with a fear of heights. The main viewing areas are accessible.
You can light a candle, say a prayer, attend mass, or simply sit and enjoy the serene environment and the breathtaking views. It's a place for reflection and spiritual connection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb to the very top of the statue might be challenging for very young children or those with a fear of heights, the main viewing areas offer plenty of spectacular sights. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, which can be a calming experience for families. It's a great opportunity to discuss themes of peace, unity, and respect across different cultures and religions.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Visitors are encouraged to participate in the devotional aspects of the site, such as lighting candles or attending services. The welcoming nature of the shrine, even to those of different religious backgrounds, fosters a sense of universal peace and shared humanity. Many describe leaving with a renewed sense of hope and tranquility.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Teleferique cable car ride itself provides a unique vantage point for capturing the landscape. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and have more freedom to compose your shots. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially inside the church.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Teleferique Experience
Be prepared for potential queues, especially during weekends and holidays. Purchasing tickets on-site is the standard procedure. The cable car operates during daylight hours, so planning your visit to coincide with good weather will maximize the visual impact. The gentle sway of the cabin adds to the sense of adventure and anticipation as you approach the iconic statue perched high above.
For those who prefer to stay grounded or have mobility concerns, driving directly to the site is also an option. However, the Teleferique is consistently praised for its scenic value and is often cited as a highlight of the visit by travelers seeking memorable experiences.
A Symbol of Unity and Peace
Visitors often speak of feeling welcomed and at peace, regardless of their religious background. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the imposing statue of Mary with open arms, creates an environment conducive to reflection and prayer. Many describe lighting a candle, making a wish, or simply absorbing the tranquil energy of the place. It serves as a powerful reminder that shared values of love, hope, and peace transcend religious differences.
The site's ability to unite people from different faiths is frequently highlighted as one of its most impactful aspects. It's not just a religious monument; it's a symbol of Lebanon's resilience and its spirit of coexistence. This message of unity resonates deeply with those who visit, making it a truly special and memorable destination.
Navigating the Site and Views
For those seeking the ultimate viewpoint, a climb up the stairs to the very top of the statue is recommended. This ascent provides an even more breathtaking, albeit potentially daunting, perspective. It's important to note that this part of the visit may not be suitable for individuals with a fear of heights.
Beyond the main statue, the site includes a church and sanctuary area, which are peaceful spaces for worship and quiet contemplation. Visitors are reminded to adhere to a modest dress code, with cloaks available for those needing to cover up before entering the sacred spaces.
Social
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