Beirut cafes: a relaxing sip of culture

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By Olga Haddad
April 04, 2008

To sit in a Beirut café is one of the city’s urban pleasures. To let time pass while watching people come and go, to write a poem, to reading the newspaper, or quite simply to rest and take pleasure in the surroundings shrouded in the mysteries of beautiful ancient times...or reflecting many moments dreamt by the present generations. Certain cafes are well known around the world such as “Les 2 magots” de Saint Germain des Prés formerly frequented by André Gide, Picasso, Prévert, Simone de Beauvoir and many other surrealist and existentialists…and one would be wrong to underestimate the significance of the cafés of Beirut.

Photo by: Tony Hage

Beirut has always been known as the beating heart of culture in the Arab world. Journalism, theatre and painting are spread throughout the city, creating an inexhaustible breath of life. “No matter what, Beirut will remain alive! One cannot kill life! It is enough to be near the cafés at any hour of the day or night to understand this passion for life. Despite the sinister political events gripping the country, Beirut is always crowded. I am sure that other cities would have succumbed to the weight of the burden, but Beirut is different. It is unique!” explains Rola, a 26 year old diplomat.

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