We are calling to revive the Egg, not as a mere vestige, but as living heritage that connects memories of the past, uses of the present and hopes of the future. The Egg, an iconic structure in downtown Beirut, has stood as a symbol of both division (during the civil war) and unity (during Thawra). 

Now, we have the opportunity to breathe life back into this space, turning it into a hub that promotes reclaiming of national cultural tools through our traditional crafts, and by connecting holders and recipients of our heritage.

By creating spaces for artisans and craftsmen to showcase and teach traditional crafts, we can ensure these skills are passed down to future generations. Hosting workshops, lectures, and cultural events will provide opportunities to learn about our history, our shared heritage and foster a sense of national belonging. 

We are calling on the Lebanese community, diaspora and friends of Lebanon to support the revival of The Egg, a historic and cultural landmark in Beirut. Join us in transforming the Egg into a vibrant hub for culture, education, and crafts.

---

The Egg of Beirut, also known as “the Dome”, “The Bubble”, or the “Sabouneh”, was designed in 1965 by Lebanese modernist architect Joseph Philippe Karam, as part of a multi-use complex ‘The City Center’ which included office spaces, a shopping center and a movie theater. The cinema was used until civil war broke out and construction for the rest of the complex ceased - leaving it unfinished to this day. Located on the notorious Green line that separated Muslim West from Christian East Beirut during the Civil War, the Egg was a strategic occupation point for snipers during the conflict. It became not only a  witness of Lebanon’s socio-political history but a frontline victim with its surface retaining scars of war and bullets. 

In post-war Lebanon, the Egg was threatened with demolition by Solidère’s redevelopment plans, triggering the birth of #TheSaveTheEgg social media campaign which led to the preservation of this historic landmark but with no plan to repurpose it. 

During the five months of the October 2019 protests, the Egg was reappropriated and re-programmed by protesters, transforming it from a ruined abandoned structure to a vibrant social hub - reorganizing Beirut’s historic core into a liveable and soulful space. The Egg became the stage of cultural events, discussions and lectures, film screenings and raves. The use of the Egg is layered and continuously evolving, serving as a cinema, sniper vantage point, cultural venue, party hub, but ultimately, remaining as an abandoned ruin.