The Ministry of Tourism confirmed that the Jeita Grotto, one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks, sustained no damage following a private event held inside the cave on October 30, 2025. The announcement comes after the ministry received the final report from the expert committee tasked with assessing potential harm to the site.

The report, which includes detailed scientific and technical appendices, documented the committee’s inspections of both the upper and lower grottoes. It also outlined technical recommendations for managing future activities, strengthening monitoring and cumulative evaluation systems, and establishing a scientific database to support sustainable site management.

“The committee did not record any mechanical, geological, or environmental damage in the inspected areas,” the ministry said, adding that the grotto’s underground ecosystem remains stable. 

The report also included a comprehensive technical framework for hosting musical and artistic events within sensitive natural sites, prepared by acoustic experts Pierre and Shannon Geara, based on leading international standards and practices.

Based on the report’s findings, the Ministry of Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Jeita Grotto as a unique national, natural, and geological treasure, while maintaining its delicate environmental stability. The ministry said the committee’s recommendations would be integrated into guidelines for the Jeita municipality and into the tender process for selecting the entity responsible for managing, operating, and maintaining the grotto after the temporary municipal administration. These measures will include continuous scientific monitoring, clear regulations for artistic and musical activities, strict limits on sound levels and frequencies, and defined categories and schedules for permitted events.

The ministry reiterated that any musical or recreational activity inside the grotto is strictly prohibited without prior written approval from the Ministry of Tourism, which must be requested by the current operator, the Jeita municipality. The statement also referenced Cabinet Circular 2025/36, which instructs all government departments, public institutions, municipalities, and relevant authorities to prevent unauthorized use of public, heritage, or symbolically significant sites.

Officials emphasized that the grotto’s temporary closure earlier this month was purely precautionary, allowing the expert committee to conduct a thorough assessment.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Tourism announced that Jeita Grotto will reopen to visitors starting Saturday, November 15, 2025.

In a message to the public, the ministry expressed gratitude for citizens’ ongoing concern for Jeita Grotto, describing it as a reflection of the site’s cultural and natural significance in the national consciousness. Authorities said this public vigilance is a key factor in ensuring the highest levels of professional management and scientific protection.

Finally, the ministry pledged to continue following a transparent, scientific, and responsible approach in managing Lebanon’s natural sites, applying expert recommendations to preserve the country’s natural heritage for future generations.