Lebbedeh making: an endangered craft
A last remaining craftsman in Lebanon who possesses the traditional knowledge and skills required to make the iconic “Lebbedeh” headwear. This unique head covering, which has been worn by Lebanese men since the Phoenician period, is now on the verge of extinction.
About the process of felting involves mixing and compacting loose fibers of wool, and compressing them into a thick, durable fabric. The felting consists of adding gradually natural olive oil soap and water to the wool, and rubbing the dough-like mixture for more than half an hour, until it is shaped into a hat. Once done, the hat is left to dry naturally in the sun for one day.
"Zajal” in Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve
The Lebanese Zajal has been recognized as a UNESCO "Intangible Cultural Heritage" since 2014.
“Zajal” is an art of folk literature and a traditional form of Arabic poetry in the Lebanese dialect. It is semi-sung and is often improvised. It is typically performed in the format of a duel, or a debate between “zajjalin” (Poets who improvise the zajal) to the rhythm of accompanying musical instruments, mainly the “daff” (tambourine) and sometimes the darbuka. The “zajjalin” are accompanied by the “Reddadi”, a chanting chorus who repeats key verses recited by the poets. In informal events, the audience itself takes on this role.
Karkeh making
Arak is a local traditional anise-based distilled alcoholic drink commonly consumed in social settings.
A local villager, demonstrates the Arak making process using a “Karkeh”, and rural women prepare an open buffet of Lebanese mezza and BBQ.
The distillation process in the Karkeh takes the whole day and night to produce the Arak. The 2 main ingredients are grapes and crushed anise seeds that give the taste. Aniseed is added to the distilled alcohol during the second out of three distillation processes.
The festival features many cultural activities such as Tawleh (traditional backgammon game), Dabkeh dance, Zajal and competitive singing.
Lots of drinking, eating and socializing awaits you!
Dabke, dabke ya chabab
The Lebanese folkloric joyful dance called “Dabke” is danced in a line or a circle where dancers stomp their feet to the ground on the rhythm, holding hands, aligning shoulders, and repeating the synchronized movements following the music beats.
The Lebanese traditional Dabke has gathered many people on weddings, events, celebrations and has been representing a symbol of unity in Lebanon. It has first started in the rural villages and then was spread all over the country. Learning Dabke is easy, there is no need to have previous dancing skills to enjoy it, as much as having a fun spirit and energy within a group of people.
To book any activity, please call us in advance
09 643 46471 944 405