Moussa Castle, Concentric castle in Deyr el-Qamar, Lebanon
Moussa Castle is a concentric fortress situated on a hilltop between Deir el-Qamar and Beiteddine, featuring towers, ramparts, and intricate stonework throughout. The structure includes multiple levels and passages that create a complex interior layout.
The castle was constructed by a local architect over many decades as a single-handed project, representing an extraordinary example of personal determination. This lengthy building effort reflects the craftsmanship and construction methods of the region during the 20th century.
The castle contains wax figures displaying scenes of 19th-century village life throughout its rooms, offering a glimpse into how people lived in rural Lebanon during that era. These tableaux show daily activities and traditions that shaped the region's past.
The site is accessible during daylight hours, and visitors should wear comfortable shoes as exploring multiple levels and narrow passages is required. Plan enough time to see all the rooms and decorative details inside.
A notable aspect of this place is that nearly every stone was hand-carved and positioned by a single person, underscoring the labor-intensive nature of the project. This personal construction method makes the site a rare example of authentic handwork in modern architecture.
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