Saint Nimatullah was born Youssed Kassab in 1808 and died in 1858. Kassab was a Lebanese Monk, Priest and Scholar of the Maronite church.

After his studies he entered the Monastery of St Anthony, where they gave him the name Nimatullah which means “The Grace of God” .

As a monk, Kassab spent his entire life in prayer and the service of his order. Kassab is believed to have performed many miracles during his life due to his deep spirituality and his high virtues. He is commended for having a radiant soul and is was said that he was deeply united to his creator “The Saint of Kfifan” was stated to have the gift of prophesy and hence became know as “a man of vision”

In 1864 his tomb was opened for re-burial and to the surprise of the monks, his body was found to be intact. His body was exposed to the veneration of the public until 1927.

Kassab was canonized on the 16th May 2004 By Pope John Paul II.

If you would like further information or would like to Visit Saint Nimatullah please email info@explorelebanontours.com OR visit www.explorelebanontours.com

Father Dario Escobar, an 84-year-old Maronite monk from Colombia took residence in the mountainside 18 years ago.

Dario heard about the Qadisha Valley’s from a Lebanese priest he met in Miami after joining the Maronite Church.

The Qadisha Valley, is scattered with monasteries and hermitages, has long been a haven for Christians seeking solitude and safety.

The cliffside sanctuary was built in the late 13th century, to reach the monastery you have to hike around 45min down the cliffside of the valley.

If you would like further information please email info@explorelebanontours.com