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Temples & religious sites

St. Elie and St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Catholic Cathedral

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St. Elie and St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Catholic Cathedral

About the Cathedral

St. Elie and St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Catholic Cathedral serves as the cathedral of the Armenian Catholic Patriarchate of Cilicia. Built in 1928 on Debbas Square with financial support from Pope Pius XI, it is an active house of worship. Travellers visit primarily to see its distinctive Armenian Catholic religious architecture, which incorporates traditional dome styling and regional stonework.

Getting There

The site is situated directly in downtown Beirut at Debbas Square. From central downtown landmarks such as Martyrs' Square, you can reach it on foot in roughly 5 to 10 minutes. Taxis and rideshare vehicles can drop passengers off directly along the perimeter streets.

Time to Allow

Plan for a visit of 20 to 45 minutes. This provides adequate time to look at the exterior structure, view the interior nave and altar, and observe the religious artwork.

When to Visit

Daytime hours offer the best lighting for examining the architectural details inside and outside. As an active church, avoid visiting during religious services unless you plan to participate, and wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. It rarely draws large tourist crowds and is generally a quiet site.

What to Combine It With

Due to its central downtown position, this stop can be combined on foot with several nearby sites:

  • Museum of Lebanese Prehistory: 0.1 km away.
  • The Egg, Beirut: 0.2 km away.
  • Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque: 0.3 km away.
  • Maronite Cathedral of Saint George, Beirut: 0.3 km away.

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

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Good to visit alongside

Museum of Lebanese Prehistory

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Museum of Lebanese Prehistory

The Museum of Lebanese Prehistory in Beirut showcases Lebanon's prehistoric and archaeological artifacts. It's an easy stop for travelers interested in history.

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The Egg, Beirut

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