Hariri tomb turns into a national monument

Downtown Beirut was Lebanon's closest part to the heart of the slain former prime minister Rafik Hariri.

He worked hard on reconstructing this vital part of the Lebanese capital, which witnessed more than 22 years of destruction due to civil war. In the end, his heart and body united with the beloved heart of Beirut.

Among the most important shrines that he worked to build was the Mohammad Al Ameen Mosque.

When Hariri laid the mosque's foundation stone, he would not have had a clue that he would be buried there along with six of his bodyguards.

Four months after he was buried, more than 15,000 people are visiting the tomb weekly to pay their respect.

The list of visitors is a long one. It includes Lebanese, Arab and international dignitaries, politicians, ministers and presidents have visited Hariri's tomb, which has become a national monument.

A special team has been assigned to take care of the tomb and watch it around the clock. The team help organise group and special visits and offer help to the visitors.

Ahmad, a young Lebanese, told Gulf News, "The tomb has become an international monument. There are thousands of Lebanese, Arab and foreign visitors who come to pay their tributes to the martyr. We count no less than 15,000 to 20,000 visitors weekly," he said.

Visitors from Asian and European countries visit the tomb "to read the Quran or the Bible".

"Others come here to put flowers," he added.

Hana, a 24-year-old banker said, "Hariri was a moderate man. He believed in dialogue among the Lebanese themselves. He loved and believed in his country and the people. Unfortunately, he's gone. I don't think anyone could replace him."

"We have come from Brazil to visit the tomb," said Yousuf Mohammad Abu Aarade, a 13-year-old Brazilian of Lebanese origin.

Having flown to Beirut on a visit, David R., a 30-year-old Briton who works in the media industry in Dubai, told Gulf News, "Rafik Hariri was the key factor behind Lebanon's reconstruction.

"This is my second visit to Beirut and I already love this fascinating place. I was in the neighbourhood and decided to pass by and pay my respect to Hariri. I believe that his death is a tragedy to this country."

David noted that Hariri's death united the country and its people. "You could feel that there is a general desire on not going back to war," he said.

"Everything in downtown reminds me of Hariri, the mosques, churches, roads, pavements, parliament, coffee shops and so many things. It is hard to forget him," said Maroun, one of the visitors.