Mim Museum, Beirut

The Mim Museum in Beirut is a private museum renowned for housing one of the most significant private collections of minerals in the world. Opened in 2013, the museum is situated on the campus of Saint Joseph University, close to the National Museum of Beirut. It occupies a 1,300 square meter area in the basement of a campus building.

The Mim Museum's collection, meticulously assembled since 1997 by Salim Eddé, a chemical engineer and co-founder of the software company Murex, comprises over 2,000 minerals representing 450 different species sourced from 70 countries. Eddé's vision was brought to life with the support of Father René Chamussy, then rector of the university, who provided space for the collection.

In addition to minerals, the museum hosts an exhibition of marine and flying fossils native to Lebanon, adding a historical dimension to its scientific allure. Eddé's efforts, alongside the expertise of Jean-Claude Boulliard, curator of the Sorbonne collection, ensured the museum's collection was both extensive and well-curated.

The inception of the museum followed nearly a decade of preparation and was funded entirely with Eddé's resources. Since its inauguration, the Mim Museum has become a pivotal educational and cultural resource, providing visitors with a unique insight into the natural world through its exceptional displays.