Adjacent to the iconic National Museum of Beirut lies Lebanon’s newest cultural landmark. We explore the stunning Nuhad Es-Said Pavilion for Culture, its commitment to honoring Lebanese heritage and the passion of those who brought it to life.

Caroline Tabet © The Nuhad Es-Said Pavilion for Culture

The Nuhad Es-Said Pavilion for Culture, whose official inauguration was scheduled for September 18, 2024, has opened its doors, inviting visitors to discover its spaces, Pavilion Café and exhibition area. Together with the National Museum of Beirut, the pavilion stands as a space of support, influence and continuity to culture and heritage. It welcomes all those seeking to gather in a place fully dedicated to art and thought.

A homage to Lebanon

The pavilion is named after the late Nuhad Es-Said, a businessman, family man and lover of the arts. He was a staunch supporter of Lebanon and deeply passionate about Lebanese cultural heritage.

Raed Abillama Architects, an award-winning architectural firm, undertook the task of designing the sleek and stylish building, which effortlessly fuses concrete and steel elements with floor-to-ceiling windows. Natural light floods the interior, creating a warm and soothing atmosphere.

Portals & Pathways, Exhibition View at the Nuhad Es-Said Pavilion for Culture © Beirut Museum of Art, 2024

 

Exhibition area

The inaugural exhibition, “Portals and Pathways, A Journey Through Reality and Imagination,” conceived and curated by BeMA, embodies its true and primary objective: opening doors and creating passages to immerse the public in a journey through culture and imagination. The exhibition, which is spread across the ground floor and basement level of the pavilion, highlights the work of 33 outstanding Lebanese artists.

A beautiful dining experience

Besides the exhibition area, the Pavilion Café provides a beautiful space for the public to relax, admire the surroundings — including views of the iconic Beirut Hippodrome — and enjoy a delicious bite from the menu, which has been designed and executed by renowned Lebanese chef Hussein Hadid. Indeed, the pavilion follows in the footsteps of other museums worldwide, offering its own signature cafe-restaurant.

Youmna Ziade Karam, a member of the incredible team overseeing the pavilion and its activities, said: “It is important to mention that all revenue generated by the pavilion and the cafe will go directly to the National Museum to help protect its collection and archaeological riches.”

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