Achrafieh Staircase, Historic staircase in Achrafieh District, Lebanon
The Achrafieh Staircase is a long flight of steps in the hilly Achrafieh neighborhood of Beirut, painted with colorful designs that connect different elevation levels. The steps vary in width and are decorated with different patterns throughout, creating visual interest as you climb.
The staircase was created in the 18th century as the neighborhood expanded, replacing earlier steep pathways that connected different parts of the hillside. Over time it has been maintained and redesigned to meet the needs of the growing community.
Local artists continuously paint murals and designs on the steps, creating a shared outdoor space that reflects community identity. The staircase serves as a gathering place where residents express themselves through colorful artwork.
The steps provide a shortcut between different elevation levels in the neighborhood, saving pedestrians from longer walking routes. The climb is steep in places, so sturdy shoes and caution on wet surfaces are recommended.
Each step varies in depth and width, creating an unexpected rhythm as you climb. This irregularity reflects how the neighborhood developed organically over many decades rather than being planned all at once.
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