Deir Mimas

Deir Mimas is a picturesque town 88 km southeast of Beirut in Lebanon. Named in honor of Saint Mamas, the town overlooks the Litani River and the medieval Beaufort Castle to the west and the snow-capped summits of Mount Hermon to the east.


Agriculture
In addition to the cultivation of grapes and figs, Deir Mimas continues to be a major producer of olives and olive oil.


Demography
The inhabitants of Deir Mimas are mostly followers of the Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic churches. One of the priests that served most of his entire life is buried at the back of the church in Mar Mama. His name was the servant of God Gerges Chammas. The location is behind the church to the east side. He devoted his life to serve Christ and his followers.


Etymology
Deir is derivative from the Semitic, meaning house or convent. Mimas refers to Saint Mamas, the third century shepherd who preached Christianity and had a lion as a protector. Saint Mamas became martyr after his examination in the persecutions of Aurelian. In the Middle Ages, a convent was built in honor of Saint Mamas on top of a hill surrounded by olive groves. A village grew around the convent, and it was eventually named in honor of the Convent of Saint Mamas. Therefore, Deir Mimas means "Convent of Saint Mamas."


Holidays
In addition to Christmas and Easter, the town celebrates the feast of Saint Mamas on September 15. Grand festivities are organized each year to honor the town's patron saint.


Highest Elevation 650 m
Lowest Elevation 550 m