Located on the northern part of Foch-Allenby conservation area, the square covers part of Beirut’s ancient harbour. It includes part of the reconstructed harbour wall, water features and an extensive pergola providing shade for seating areas.
The Ottoman harbour wall was discovered on site in 2004 during construction work. It formed part of a small harbour called the ‘Bassin des Mahones’ which provided shelter for small boats (Mahones).
Harbour Square is located at the centre of the downtown shopping area. Like a harbour sheltering boats from the waves, the new intimate courtyard square provides a respite from the fervent activity of the vicinity ‒ but similarly serves as a space for connections to the surrounding areas. Trees are lining the edges of the square and enclose it in a wall of green to soften the space.
The landscape design evokes the square’s heritage and memories of the past: From large architectural gestures such as the steel canopy ‘floating’ on water to scheme details such as the paving that marks the ancient boundary between land and sea. The ancient wall receives a sculptural treatment and is partially surrounded by water.
Interpretation provides educational background for a better understanding of the origins and history of Beirut.
Harbour Square is one of a series of public spaces designed to support Beirut’s re-emergence from the 1975‒1990 Civil War.
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