Very old Lebanese house architecture — typically referring to homes built before the 18th century (from Phoenician, Roman, medieval, and early Ottoman times) — reflects a deeply rooted connection to the land, climate, and local materials. These homes are more vernacular and utilitarian than the more refined 19th-20th century mansions, yet they embody the essence of Lebanon’s ancient architectural identity.

Key Characteristics of Very Old Lebanese House Architecture

1. Flat or Domed Roofs (Pre-Red Tile Era)

  • Unlike the later sloped red-tile roofs, very old houses often had:

  • Flat earthen roofs made of timber, reed mats, and clay.

  • Or stone barrel vaults or domes (in mountain regions), to withstand snow and rain.

  • Domed roofs also allowed for water collection and passive cooling.

2. Thick Rubble or Ashlar Stone Walls

  • Built using field stones or cut limestone, often without mortar (dry-stacked), or with lime-based mortar.

  • Walls were thick (sometimes up to 1 meter), offering insulation and strength.

  • In mountainous or rural areas, houses were partially dug into the slope for stability and thermal regulation.

3. Small Openings

  • Very small windows or slits to reduce heat gain and increase protection.

  • Wood shutters were used, but glass was rare or absent.

4. Minimal Ornamentation

  • Decoration was mostly functional — wooden lintels, stone corbels, or carved door frames.

  • Surfaces were sometimes coated with lime plaster to reflect heat and protect stonework.

5. Earth-Toned Materials

Structures blended into the landscape with natural colors (beige, ochre, dusty rose).

Materials: mud brick (in some inland areas), stone, timber, and clay plaster.