Palais de Justice

Architect Farid Trad’s Palais de Justice stands as a testament to Lebanon’s resilience. Built between 1959 and 1963, the Palais de Justice isn’t just a building. It’s the very heart of Lebanon’s judicial system. Located in Beirut, this imposing structure commands attention. The Palais de Justice houses the courts and offices that handle everything from civil disputes to criminal trials and administrative cases. The sheer size of the Palais de Justice is impressive. The complex sprawls across 35,000 square meters. Trad’s design masterfully blends modern and traditional architectural elements. This fusion symbolizes the balance between the evolving nature of law and the enduring principles of justice. Originally, the facade of the Palais de Justice featured two rows of columns. Trad, however, decided to remove the outer row. He felt it made the building appear too ostentatious. This decision reflects the careful balance that Trad’s generation of architects sought between the grandeur of Beaux-Arts and the clean lines of modernism. Despite embracing modern techniques, Trad insisted on using local Baalbeck stone for the facing. This choice necessitated importing specialized machinery from Italy and hiring expert craftsmen. This commitment to using local materials helped advance Lebanon’s construction industry. Within the walls of the Palais de Justice, countless significant trials have unfolded. Cases involving political assassinations, corruption, and national security have all been heard within these halls. These events underscore the Palais de Justice’s crucial role in Lebanon’s history and its ongoing pursuit of justice.