The gorgeous collection of Armenian religious and cultural artefacts at the Cilicia Museum is one of Beirut's best-kept secrets. And secrets play a major role in the history of this museum, as most of the collection was smuggled out of what was known as Turkish Armenia in 1915, by monks from the Monastery of Sis in Cilicia.
Given just several days to flee the genocide by the Turks, the monks removed as much of their treasure as they could and began their dangerous overland journey, eventually arriving in Aleppo (Syria). In 1930 they finally settled in Antelias, just north of Beirut.To get to the museum, take the LCC bus 6, or any minibus going north to Jounieh and Byblos via the highway, and get off near the green-coloured footbridge over the southbound highway at Antelias. From here you should be able to spot the spires of the cathedral. You can also take the LCC bus 2 that finishes its route at Antelias. Get off at the last stop and walk towards the water from where you'll spot the entrance. The museum is at the left rear of the courtyard. Call in advance to arrange an extremely worthwhile guided tour, during which you'll learn not only about the items on display, but also about the often tragic history of the Armenian diaspora.
