Emir Munzer Mosque, Beirut

The Emir Munzer Mosque is a historically significant structure in the Beirut Central District. Constructed in 1620 by Emir Munzer Al-Tannoukhi, who served as the Governor of Beirut from 1616 to 1633, this mosque represents a blend of Lebanese and Ottoman architectural styles. Emir Munzer is also known for other architectural contributions, including a palace in Abei town.

One of the mosque's distinct features is its two entrances: an original 17th-century arched portal from Souk Al-Bazarkhan and a secondary entrance with three arches, added during later expansions. These additions were made to accommodate the creation of Emir Fakhreddine Street, now known as Riad Al-Solh Street. The mosque incorporates materials from earlier eras, notably Roman granite columns that are evident in the mosque's courtyard.

Emir Munzer Mosque has a rich history, having undergone several restorations. The most significant ones were in 1749 by Emir Melhem and Emir Mansour Haydar Al-Shehab and in 2002 following damage from the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990). This restoration helped preserve its splendid traditional Lebanese architecture and Mamluk-style octagonal minaret. The mosque's courtyard is particularly notable for its lofty portico of pointed arches supported by pre-existing Roman grey granite columns.

Additional elements like the sabil, an alabaster fountain that once stood at the eastern entrance, and the iconic phrase on the minbar reading "God is true, there is no doubt" - a saying still prevalent in Beirut today - contribute to the mosque's cultural and historical significance. The mosque's location near the Bazarkan market and proximity to other historic sites like the Omari Grand Mosque adds to its importance as a cultural and religious landmark in Beirut.