Forty kilometres southeast of Beirut lies the Shouf district, a mountainous region rich in archaeology and architecture that reflects the diverse history and peoples of Mount Lebanon. Among its picturesque villages is Baadarane, home to the Palace of Ali Joumblatt, a striking example of Italian influence in Lebanese architecture. Built in cut local stone and set against terraced slopes of pine and oak, the residence belonged to one of the great families of the Shouf, and its arcades, vaulted halls and carved detail speak of a mountain aristocracy with wide Mediterranean connections. Filmed in 4K, this episode explores the building and the village around it, and the layered history they share.
