Monastery of Qozhaya
Maronite monastery in Lebanon / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya, or Monastery of Qozhaya (also Qazahya; Syriac: ܕܝܪܐ ܕܡܪܝ ܐܢܛܘܢܝܘܣ ܩܘܙܚܝܐ, Arabic: دير مار أنطونيوس قزحيا) is a large and important Maronite monastery.[1] It is located in the Zgharta District in the North Governorate of Lebanon.
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Qozhaya
دير مار أنطونيوس قزحيا | |
---|---|
City | |
Coordinates: 34°16′59″N 35°56′50″E | |
Country | Lebanon |
Governorate | North Governorate |
District | Zgharta District |
Elevation | 664 m (2,178 ft) |
Time zone | UTC+2 (EET) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC+3 (EEST) |
Dialing code | +961 |
The Monastery of Qozhaya holds significant importance within Maronite tradition and history. Its origins date back to the 13th century, serving as a residence for monks and, at one point, functioning as the headquarters of the Maronite Patriarchate. In the 16th century, it housed the Middle East's first printing press, which is still accessible to visitors. Its land holdings extended to the surrounding areas of the Kadisha Valley.[1]
The monastery features a notable church, housing for nuns and monks, and an expansive cave known as the Grotto of Saint Anthony. Known for its association with various events, it also offers a guest house.[1]