Elisha’s Monastery (Cedars Of God) FAQs In 2024

What is Elisha’s Monastery?

Elisha’s Monastery, also known as Deir Mar Elisha, is an ancient Christian monastery located near the Cedars of God forest in Bsharri, Lebanon. It is named after the Prophet Elisha and has historically been a site of religious significance and pilgrimage.

The Cedars of God are an ancient grove of cedar trees in the mountains of northern Lebanon. They are one of the last vestiges of extensive forests that once thrived across Mount Lebanon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located near the town of Bsharri, in the Qadisha Valley.

The Cedars of God are revered for their historical, religious, and national significance to Lebanon. These trees are millennia-old and were once used by Phoenicians, Egyptians, and others for building temples and ships due to their high-quality wood. The forest has been mentioned in religious texts such as the Bible, highlighting its spiritual importance.

Tourists can visit by traveling to Bsharri, Lebanon, and then following local directions to the Cedars of God forest reserve. From there, Elisha’s Monastery can be reached by following hiking trails or sometimes along a drivable path, depending on accessibility and local conditions.

Visitors may need to pay a small entrance fee to access the Cedars of God. However, entrance to Elisha’s Monastery itself is usually free, but it is advised to check in advance as policies can change.

The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) as the weather is generally pleasant with milder temperatures. Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall, which could restrict access, and summers are typically hot and dry.

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting Elisha’s Monastery, as it is a religious site. It's also recommended to be respectful of the natural environment and follow any guidelines provided to protect the ancient Cedars and surrounding ecosystem.

Yes, guided tours are available, and they can provide valuable insights about the historical, cultural, and religious significance of the sites. Tour providers can be found in Bsharri and larger cities like Beirut.

The Cedars of God area has facilities such as a visitor center, restrooms, and souvenir shops. However, facilities at Elisha’s Monastery might be more limited, so it is advisable to prepare accordingly for the visit.

While there is no accommodation at Elisha's Monastery itself, the nearby town of Bsharri and surrounding areas offer various lodging options including hotels, guesthouses, and resorts catering to different budgets and preferences.

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