Beirut, Lebanon (Enmaeya News) — Jeita Grotto, one of Lebanon’s most iconic natural and cultural landmarks, officially reopened Monday for the summer tourism season.

Located 18 kilometers north of Beirut, the grotto features a vast network of limestone caves stretching over 9 kilometers, showcasing striking rock formations, an underground river, and dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. A favorite among tourists, Jeita was once nominated as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

The official reopening ceremony was held on 21 July under the patronage of President Joseph Aoun, represented by Minister of Tourism Laura El-Khazen Lahoud. In her speech, Lahoud highlighted the site’s national and symbolic value, calling Jeita “a natural wonder that has long served as Lebanon’s face to the world.”

“Jeita Grotto is reopening its doors after eight months of forced closure—not as an isolated achievement, but thanks to the insistence of President Aoun and the sincere partnership between the Ministry of Tourism and the Municipality of Jeita.” Lahoud Said.

Lahoud also underscored the importance of local governments in preserving public sites: “Municipalities, despite all the financial and administrative challenges, remain the first point of contact between citizens and the state. They deserve real support to play their role—not only in service delivery but in restoring trust in public institutions.”

Jeita Grotto continues to play a central role in Lebanon’s tourism landscape, supporting the local economy and cultural identity. Its reopening is part of broader efforts to revitalize the country’s tourism sector amid ongoing economic challenges.