Der Mar Elias

Perched atop a high hill frequently swept by strong winds, the monastery takes its name either from these gusts — “al-Reeh” meaning “the wind” — or possibly from the nearby village of al-Rihaniyya.

According to tradition, Deir Mar Elias was built around the year 1200 on the ruins of ancient pagan temples that existed prior to the spread of Christianity in the region.

The monastery suffered significant destruction at the hands of the Mamluks, who mistakenly believed it was a refuge for Crusaders.

It was later rebuilt during the time of Bishop Makarios, Metropolitan of Akkar and its dependencies for the Greek Orthodox Church, restoring its role as a place of worship and heritage.