This post is intended to highlight one of the great tensions and debates in contemporary Lebanon, and Beirut in particular. The question of historic preservation and architectural value haunts the city, and is a source of lively and constant debate which unfolds most prominently in Downtown and Central Beirut, where a company by the name of Solidere is tasked with re-developing Beirut post-war. Their controversial authority and ritzy ‘Disneyland’ style leave a sour taste in the mouths of some Lebanese. Their efforts are met with resistance by organizations like Save Beirut Heritage which deplore the rapidly dwindling number of historic buildings in the city.
tess m. waggoner 