Martyrs Square, Beirut

Today a popular spot for civil gathering and protests, Martyrs' Square in the heart of downtown Beirut is a famous landmark. The historic square took its name to commemorate the martyrs executed there. In 1916, on the orders of Djemal Pasha, Ottoman military ruler of Beirut, sixteen Lebanese men are marched into the ancient seaside square called Freedom Square. The men, Christians, Muslims, intellectuals, journalists and one poet are hung with minimal ceremony.

The square originally was an open area, near the ancient watchtower Burj al Kashef. It was a modern square in 1878. It had gardens, kiosks, fountains and souks. It became the main meeting place of the city.

The first Martyrs Monument was unveiled on 19 December 1930. The sculpture showed two women holding hands over a funeral urn. It was created by Youssef Hoyek, a local sculptor. Called "The Weeping Women", it proved unpopular and it was replaced in 1960 by the current Martyrs Monument of Italian sculptor Marino Mazzacuratti.

During the civil war of 1975-1990 the sqaure itself became the demarcation line dividing the city. In 2020 a devastating explosion in the harbor killed hundreds of people and flattened a large swath of the city. Within days there were demonstrations and riots.

People in general blamed government corruption and neglect. Once again Martyrs Square became the scene of blood and destruction. Many people had lost everything. The one thing that remains around Martyrs square is hope. The spirits of the Martyrs of 1916 still abide. There is always hope.