What if I told you that Beirut holds a treasure trove of the Earth’s artistry? That treasure is the Mim Museum. It is a private museum. Its name is short for Mineral Museum. Here, within these walls, nature’s masterpieces await.
The Mim Museum displays over 2,000 minerals. These represent 450 different species. They come from 70 countries. The museum is considered a significant private collection.
Salim Eddé, a chemical engineer, started this collection in 1997. He co-founded the computer company Murex. In 2004, he wanted to share his passion with the public. Eddé envisioned Lebanon’s first mineral museum. He presented his idea to Father René Chamussy. Chamussy was the rector of Saint Joseph University of Beirut. The university embraced the project. They provided 1,300 square meters in a building’s basement. The location was near the National Museum of Beirut. The Mim Museum opened in October 2013. It was built using Eddé’s personal funds.
Inside the Mim Museum, prepare to be amazed. Minerals created millions of years ago are on display. They boast breathtaking aesthetics. You will see incredible geometric shapes. A fabulous color palette is present. One highlight is a large uncut emerald crystal. It weighs 1,390 carats. Its deep green color is captivating. The upper two-thirds are transparent. The lower part is translucent.
Another star is the Baryte from Morocco. The Mim Museum nicknamed it “The Blue Cedar”. Its unique form and color make it a standout.
But the Mim Museum offers more than minerals. It also features fossils. See marine and flying fossils from Lebanon. A special wing showcases Mimodactylus libanensis. It is nicknamed “Mimo”. This pterodactyl fossil is one-of-a-kind. It was found in Lebanon. It represents a new species and genus of pterosaur. This being lived around 95 million years ago. The museum uses modern techniques to present “Mimo”. You’ll find a hologram and an auto-stereoscopic movie. There is also a full-scale reconstitution. Children and adults can enjoy the game “fly with mimo”.
The Mim Museum also hosts thematic exhibitions. One example is “Fish’n’Stone”. This showcased 200 marine fossils. These fossils were quarried in the Lebanese mountains. An animation shows the history of their formation. It immerses you in marine life from 100 million years ago.
Visiting the Mim Museum is a journey through time and Earth’s artistry. It is a testament to Lebanon’s cultural richness. It also highlights the wonders of the natural world. It is a place where precious treasures from all over the world meet. These treasures tell the stories of their countries. Different shapes, different colors, different sizes create a unique pleasure for the eyes. So, as you leave, remember the beauty. Remember the science. Remember the story of the Mim Museum.