This collection is part of a larger project, the Built Heritage of Lebanon Survey, a visual survey of the rich, varied, and pluralistic architectural history of Lebanon that is still under development. The documentation has been compiled by Ali Khodr, a practicing architect and MIT alum.

When viewed as an ensemble, Khodr's photographs attest to the distinctive development of specific traditions over time and throughout various regions, while also allowing us to easily see the reciprocal influences between these elements. To view the photos together, select "view the collection" on this page. Visitors will also find the sites that Khodr has documented placed in groups by location. 

This project is still under development, but we make it available now to call attention to the terrible devastation caused by the explosions that occurred on August 4, 2020, in the port area of Beirut. Many people were killed, and many more people were seriously injured. Still more are struggling with the loss of their homes, livelihoods, and personal property, including irreplaceable objects with enormous personal significance. In the face of such devastation, many people probably have not had time to think about the destruction of buildings, but it is clear that the skyline of this amazing city will be irrevocably altered.  

The work we present in this collection was done before the explosions last month. We try to keep Archnet site records up-to-date with information about damage, destruction, or even significant alterations, so we will be updating the records in this collection if needed.  

For additional information on Beirut, see the city record. 

September 14, 2020

Michael A. Toler 

Archnet Content Manager, AKDC@MIT