Monastery of St. Antoine from the Qadisha Valley | Lebanon

Postcard

The Qadisha Valley is hidden within a deep valley amidst rugged and desolate mountains.

Within the mountainous interior, ancient monasteries and churches provide a moving testament to Lebanon’s religious communities. Historically, the Qadisha Valley was virtually inaccessible to conquering armies, and therefore  it served as a refuge for the Middle East’s persecuted religious minorities, such as the Maronites.

Sites of significance include the red-roofed Monastery of St. Antoine in Koshaya, which was built into a cliff side and is surrounded by trees.

The Qadisha Valley is UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stamp

From a set of stamps celebrating Lebanon’s cultural heritage: Lebanese singer and actress Sabah (1927).