“Did you know that this area around Mar Elias Roum has seen both faith and displacement?” This isn’t just a place of worship. It is also a landmark intertwined with the story of Palestinian refugees. Let’s delve into the layered history of Mar Elias Roum.
Mar Elias camp is nearby. It lies between Watt Musitbeh and the UNESCO palace. The Roman Orthodox Church donated this small piece of land of 1.5 square kilometers. That act of generosity shaped the camp’s identity.
Originally, Mar Elias camp was established in 1956. Around 1,500 people inhabited it then. These people were a mix of Christian and Muslim families. They had fled Palestine in 1948. The establishment of the camp reflects the waves of displacement.
During the Lebanese Civil War, the camp’s demographics shifted. Many original families left. They were replaced by families from Tal El Zaatar camp. Others came from areas in East Beirut. This reshuffling shows the war’s impact on communities.
Life in Mar Elias camp is challenging. It is the second smallest camp in Lebanon. Residents face difficult living conditions. Unemployment is very high. Water and electricity are constant problems.
Despite these hardships, the community perseveres. Beit Atfal Assumoud is a social and cultural center. It was established in 1987. It supports families in the camp and throughout Beirut. It particularly supports those displaced during the civil war. The center’s reach extends to the coastal road to Saida.
The center offers various programs. These include art activities and handicrafts. Picnics are organized for children and mothers. There are also exhibitions. Cultural and awareness programs cater to youth and mothers. Even Ramadan dinners bring people together.
Mar Elias Roum and the adjacent camp are testaments to faith. They also stand for resilience. They highlight the enduring human spirit amidst displacement.