Saint Charbel: A Pilgrim’s Guide to His Life, Legacy, and Shrine in Annaya
Lebanon, with its majestic landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, is a beacon for religious tourism. Here, faith and history intertwine, creating an extraordinary spiritual journey for visitors. Among its many sacred sites, the Monastery of St. Maroun in Annaya stands out, drawing pilgrims from across the globe to honor the legacy and miracles of St. Charbel Makhlouf.
Revisiting this sacred place last week, I experienced a crisp 10°C afternoon, with the sun casting golden rays over the sea. The clear skies and scattered clouds created a spring-like ambiance, though no traces of snow were visible. This serene beauty carried a silent yet urgent message—the effects of global warming are becoming increasingly evident, with seasonal changes growing more unpredictable each year. Comparing the scene to past visits, I reflected on the importance of sustainable tourism and environmental awareness.
This article explores the remarkable life of Saint Charbel, often called "the Miracle Monk of Lebanon" and "the heavenly doctor," and offers a complete guide to visiting his shrine at the Monastery of St. Maroun in Annaya, nestled at an altitude of 1,250 meters in the Byblos district.
A Glimpse into Lebanon’s Religious Landscape
Lebanon is a spiritual crossroads where Christianity, Islam, and Druze traditions coexist, each leaving a profound imprint on the country’s rich heritage. For Christians, Lebanon holds special importance as home to one of the oldest communities of faith. The Maronites, tracing their roots to St. Maroun in the 4th century, represent a significant part of this legacy, while the Orthodox Church, with its roots dating back to the time of the Apostles in the 1st century AD, contributes through its many historical landmarks, including ancient monasteries, churches, and hermitages such as Hamatoura Monastery (Kousba) and the Monastery of St. George (Deir el-Harf).
Islamic heritage is also evident in Lebanon, with remarkable mosques showcasing centuries of devotion and architectural brilliance. Notable examples include the Sayida Khawla Mosque (Baalbek) and the Al Mansouri Great Mosque (Tripoli). Another noteworthy site is the Nabi Ayoub Shrine, revered by the Druze community and dedicated to the Prophet Job, symbolizing patience and faith.
This interwoven tapestry of faiths reflects Lebanon’s unique identity, offering a wealth of sacred sites and traditions for visitors to explore. More details on these and other remarkable locations will be shared in future articles under the theme of spiritual heritage tourism.
Who is St. Charbel? The Life of a Saint
A Humble Beginning
St. Charbel was born Youssef Antoun Makhlouf on May 8, 1828, in Bekaa Kafra in Bcharre district, the highest village in Lebanon and the Middle East. From a young age, he displayed a deep spiritual inclination, often retreating to a nearby grotto to pray.
At 23, he joined the Lebanese Maronite Order at the Monastery of Our Lady in Mayfouk, taking the name Charbel after a 2nd-century martyr. His journey of faith led him to the Monastery of St. Maroun in Annaya, where he was ordained a priest in 1859.
The Eremitic Life
In 1875, after his superior witnessed the miracle of the lamp, Father Charbel was approved to move to the nearby Hermitage of Saints Peter and Paul, choosing a path of solitude and devotion.
For 23 years , Saint Charbel led a disciplined and austere life, dedicating hours to prayer, celebrating the Divine Liturgy with profound devotion, and performing manual labor including cultivating gardens and planting. He adhered to a simple diet, often eating only one meal a day, embodying his vow of poverty and detachment from material comforts. Despite his isolation, his sanctity and wisdom drew many seeking spiritual guidance.
Captured at the hermitage
The Miracle of the Lamp
One of the most famous miracles associated with St. Charbel occurred during his life. A monk reportedly replaced the oil in his lamp with water. To the monk's astonishment, St. Charbel lit the lamp, and it burned as if it were filled with oil. This act of divine grace solidified his reputation as a man of unwavering faith.
Echoes of Faith and Devotion
Saint Charbel’s words resonate with timeless spiritual wisdom, offering guidance on love, family, and the path to God. His teachings encourage deep reflection and a life rooted in faith and purpose:
"Why is the path of humanity descending, while the path of God is ascending?"
“Begin nothing on earth unless it has its end in heaven; do not walk on a path that does not lead to heaven.”
"If a person does not transform into love, they die."
"Guide your senses to glorify God."
"Preserve the warmth of the family, for the warmth of the entire world cannot replace it."
“The things that go on within you are more important than those that take place in your life.”
His Death and the Path to Sainthood
On December 16, 1898, while celebrating Mass, Father Charbel suffered a stroke. He passed away on December 24, leaving behind a legacy of holiness. Following his burial, a mysterious light began emanating from his tomb, and reports of miraculous healings attracted pilgrims.
Saint Charbel's coffin and tomb were replaced multiple times over the years due to the exuding of sweat and blood. In 1950, the tomb was opened in the presence of certified doctors and the church’s committee to confirm the integrity of his body. Following this, numerous miracles were reported, leading to his beatification in 1965 and canonization in 1977. His status as a global symbol of spiritual devotion was further affirmed in 2024 with the installation of a mosaic in the Vatican Grottoes near the tomb of Pope Paul VI, who canonized him.
The Miracle of Nohad El Shami
One of the most renowned miracles attributed to St. Charbel is the healing of Nohad El Shami in 1993. Suffering from a paralyzing stroke, Nohad experienced a dream in which St. Charbel performed spiritual surgery on her neck. Upon waking, she was miraculously healed, with two physical wounds that remain as evidence to this day.
St. Charbel later instructed her to attend Mass at the Monastery of St. Maroun on the 22nd of every month. This tradition continues today, with thousands gathering to pray, celebrate Mass, and honor the saint’s intercession.
A Pilgrim’s Guide to St. Maroun Monastery and St. Charbel’s Shrine
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Annaya, the St. Maroun Monastery offers visitors a profound blend of spirituality, history, and breathtaking views. This revered destination, honoring the life and miracles of St. Charbel Makhlouf, is a cornerstone of religious tourism in Lebanon. Here’s everything you need to explore:
Arrival: A Grand Welcome
The monastery offers ample parking for visitors. Upon arrival, a statue of St. Charbel with his hand raised in blessing warmly greets pilgrims. Behind it, a portrait of the saint, with eyes humbly cast downward, reflects his deep modesty. Remarkably, no images of St. Charbel existed during his life. However, it was reported that a photograph mysteriously captured the image of a monk believed to be him, despite no such figure being present. Many consider this event a miraculous manifestation of the saint.
Visiting the Old Church
A few steps ahead lead to the historic Old Church of St. Maroun, where generations of faithful have gathered. This sacred site exudes a profound sense of history and devotion, offering visitors a serene environment for reflection and prayer, accessed by a few stairs.
Before reaching the Old Church, there is a souvenir shop offering religious items, icons, and keepsakes for visitors to commemorate their visit.
St. Charbel’s Shrine
Descending from the Old Church, you’ll find the Church which houses the tomb of St. Charbel, a site of deep reverence and spirituality. Pilgrims from around the world come here to seek solace, miracles, and spiritual connection. The atmosphere is one of peace, enhanced by the quiet prayers of visitors.
St. Charbel’s Museum and Sacred Offerings
Next to the shrine is a museum showcasing St. Charbel’s personal belongings, including his monastic habit, prayer items, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into his ascetic life and unwavering faith. Adjacent to the museum, a shop provides sacred items such as blessed oil, incense, and candles for visitors.
The New Church: A Testament to Faith
Built to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, the newly constructed church is a modern yet reverent addition to the site. Situated on the western side of the monastery, it was inaugurated in 1974, following St. Charbel’s beatification in 1965. This church blends contemporary architecture with spiritual significance, serving as a focal point for large gatherings and special religious ceremonies.
Mouneh Shop, Public Facilities, and The Oasis
To the left of the site, visitors will find a “mouneh” shop featuring local products made by the monastery’s monks. From honey and olive oil to zaatar, jams, and traditional Lebanese delicacies, the shop offers a delightful taste of Lebanon’s heritage while supporting the monastery’s work.
Facing the shop, a restaurant-café provides a welcoming spot to enjoy snacks, perfect for a break during your visit. Nearby, public toilets are available for added convenience.
For those seeking a deeper spiritual experience, The Oasis offers facilities for extended prayer and overnight stays.
The Hermitage of Saints Peter and Paul
The hermitage where St. Charbel spent his final 23 years, accessible by car within a few minutes and clearly marked by signage, is a must-visit. After parking, a serene walking path adorned with inspirational signs leads you to this sacred retreat.
Inside the hermitage, visitors can see:
St. Charbel’s bed and personal belongings.
A prayer room offering a serene space for meditation.
Heritage items that reflect his simple, ascetic lifestyle.
Outside, the hermitage offers panoramic views of Lebanon’s mountains and valleys, providing a breathtaking reminder of the natural beauty that glorifies the works of the Lord’s hands.
Why Visit?
The Monastery of St. Maroun and St. Charbel’s Shrine is more than a religious site—it is a place of profound spirituality, miracles, and cultural heritage, offering an unforgettable experience for pilgrims and travelers seeking healing, inspiration, or peace. During this unseasonably warm winter, my visit highlighted the urgent need to preserve the richness of our land for future generations.
Stay tuned for an exciting new hiking trail adventure I’ll be sharing soon, along with more stories from the surrounding area. There’s always more to discover in this beautiful region of Lebanon!
Getting There
The Monastery of St. Maroun is located in Annaya, Byblos District, approximately 45 kilometers from Beirut.
Driving: The journey takes about 1.5 hours by car. Use Google Maps to navigate directly to “Monastery St. Maroun Annaya.”
Public Transport: Bus schedules can be inconsistent, so it’s best to plan accordingly to reach Byblos. For the final stretch to Annaya, hiring a taxi is necessary to reach the monastery.
Taxi: Local taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt offer convenient transportation directly to the monastery.
Travel Tips for Visiting Annaya and St. Maroun Monastery
Parking and Crowds: If you’re visiting on the 22nd of the month for the monthly procession or during religious events, arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Weekends can also be busy, so plan ahead.
Weather Considerations: Mountain roads can be foggy or slippery, especially in winter, so drive carefully.
Sunset Views: The parking area near the Hermitage offers stunning panoramic views, especially during sunset. The golden rays over the Mediterranean Sea, often complemented by clouds rolling in, create a breathtaking, serene backdrop.
Sustainability: Help preserve this sacred and natural site by practicing responsible tourism. Stay on marked paths, minimize waste, and support local businesses such as the mouneh shop.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
Ehmej and Laklouk: If you're up for more adventure, continue your journey to Ehmej or Laklouk. These areas boast lush landscapes, mountain trails, and scenic viewpoints, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Byblos (Jbeil): Alternatively, take a stroll through the historical city of Byblos. Wander its charming souks, visit ancient ruins, and relax by the harbor. Byblos is also known for its vibrant café culture and delectable Lebanese cuisine, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a Mediterranean sunset over a delicious meal.
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About Nidal Majdalani
Nidal Majdalani is a renowned travel writer, tourism expert, photographer, and explorer, celebrated for her vivid storytelling and passion for Lebanon’s exploration through her “Travelling Lebanon” initiative since 2010, supporting local communities. With over a decade of experience capturing Lebanon’s natural, cultural, historical, and culinary treasures, she is also the sole author of the Lebanon guide for Lonely Planet’s Middle East book- 2025. Through her journeys, Nidal invites readers to see Lebanon through her words and lens, showcasing its hidden gems while curating one-of-a-kind itineraries for unforgettable experiences.
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