In this episode of “Asel Al Hkeyeh”, we take you on a field tour of Beirut’s historic homes.
Some of these houses date back to the French Mandate and the Ottoman era. They have survived natural disasters and Lebanon’s many conflicts, but today they face another threat: neglect.
The episode explores the hidden stories behind Beirut’s traditional architecture, including the history of French roof tiles, decorative “carpet tiles”, and the future of the city’s threatened architectural heritage.
Many historic homes in Beirut are now at risk of neglect, deterioration and demolition.
The lack of adequate protection, maintenance and effective legislation has left many of these buildings vulnerable.
During a tour of a historic property dating back to the 19th century and the French Mandate, including the Debbas family building, we explore some of its architectural details.
These include the traditional decorative tiles known as “carpet tiles”, as well as the roof tiles historically imported from Marseille, France.
The report also looks at what could happen to Beirut’s historic homes if no effective measures are taken to protect and preserve them.
