In Beirut, many historic sites and districts are caving in to modern construction. It's still possible to see historic buildings amid glossy high-rises. But modern construction is changing the city's soul, as well as distinct neighborhood cultures. Hediye Levent takes a look at the destruction of historic buildings and renovation efforts in Lebanon's capital.
Beirut's Changing Face, Lost Legacy
- By VOA News
![The civil war has caused great damage to the historical and social fabric of Lebanon. (H. Levent/VOA)](https://gdb.voanews.com/3f6e442a-e001-4a9c-b373-bc3fcc3e2660_w1024_q10_s.jpg)
1
The civil war has caused great damage to the historical and social fabric of Lebanon. (H. Levent/VOA)
![Many people left the country during or after the civil war. (H. Levent/VOA)](https://gdb.voanews.com/8f7975fe-3f93-47c4-a0bf-c8fc132e407f_w1024_q10_s.jpg)
2
Many people left the country during or after the civil war. (H. Levent/VOA)
![It is possible to see traces of the civil war in central Beirut. (H. Levent/VOA)](https://gdb.voanews.com/6d97311c-b0db-41bd-b565-1405ff8d6f83_w1024_q10_s.jpg)
3
It is possible to see traces of the civil war in central Beirut. (H. Levent/VOA)
![Buildings that bore the brunt of war have been abandoned or are on the verge of collapse. Some of these structures carry historical significance. (H. Levent/VOA)](https://gdb.voanews.com/f24c4b49-28b6-41be-a8f9-7987fd2a0260_w1024_q10_s.jpg)
4
Buildings that bore the brunt of war have been abandoned or are on the verge of collapse. Some of these structures carry historical significance. (H. Levent/VOA)