Saydet al Bahr, the Lady of the Sea church, stands by the water in Batroun, where the town’s fishing port, Phoenician sea wall and stone souk all face the Mediterranean. The dedication is exact: this is a church of a maritime community, used by families who still work the harbour. Its seaside setting makes it one of the most photogenic churches on the north coast, especially in the late light with boats in the foreground. Visitors walking the Roman theatre, the old port and St Stephen’s cathedral can add it in a few minutes. Dress modestly and keep a quiet pace if you step inside. It is a landmark of coastal Batroun, not only a religious site.
