MIM Mineral Museum

Imagine a space where nature acts as a master artist and architect — this is how the MIM Mineral Museum welcomes its visitors. Located in Beirut, this private museum is recognized as one of the most impressive mineral collections in the world. The exhibition is situated on the Saint Joseph University campus and covers an area of 1,300 m², offering guests a chance to dive into the wonderful world of underground treasures.

MIM Mineral Museum. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The museum halls display over 2,300 mineral specimens from 80 different countries. The collection is striking in its diversity: here you can see the rarest crystals, surprising with their perfect geometry and incredible color palette. Lebanon is rightfully proud of this site, as the quality and rarity of the specimens on display make it a must-visit for any traveler.

Beyond the sparkling stones, the MIM Museum houses a unique collection of paleontological finds. One of the main gems of the exhibition is a complete pterodactyl skeleton, Mimodactylus libanensis. Thanks to the use of modern technology, such as holograms and interactive screens, learning about ancient flora and fauna becomes an exciting adventure for both adults and children.

To contact the museum administration or confirm details before your visit, please use the details provided below. The museum is open to communication with visitors and frequently shares updates through its official channels.

In the halls of the MIM Mineral Museum, visitors can expect more than just a look at display cases; it is a true intellectual adventure. Be sure to follow the specially designed educational route: information panels and videos clearly explain how minerals are used in science and our daily lives—from plaster production to high-tech industries.

Pay special attention to the fossil section. Here, you can see the legendary Lebanese pterodactyl, brought to life through modern technology. Autostereoscopic films and interactive games allow children and adults to learn about the creatures that inhabited our planet millions of years ago in a fun and engaging way.

If you are lucky enough to join a tour sometimes led by the founder himself, Salim Eddé, you will hear fascinating stories about the search for and acquisition of the rarest crystals. Before leaving, stop by the gift shop: there, you can purchase small samples of natural minerals, such as delicate selenite, which makes for a lovely souvenir of your trip to Beirut.

The MIM Mineral Museum is located on the Saint Joseph University (CIS) campus, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. It is situated in the immediate vicinity of the famous National Museum of Beirut, so the two are often visited together as part of a single cultural itinerary.

The most convenient way to reach the museum is by taxi or popular ride-sharing services. A trip from central Beirut takes only a few minutes. If you prefer public transport, choose buses heading toward Damascus Street, from where the campus is within walking distance.

For those traveling by private or rental car, parking is available on the university grounds. Look for the modern Campus de l'Innovation et du Sport buildings — the museum entrance is located there, underground, creating a unique atmosphere of descending into the depths of the planet.

The unique collection of the MIM Mineral Museum began to take shape in 1997. Its founder, Salim Eddé — a chemical engineer and philanthropist — personally selected and acquired the finest mineral specimens from around the world. The idea to turn the private collection into a public museum arose in 2004 as a way to share this natural beauty with both locals and visitors to the country.

The project was supported by the Rector of Saint Joseph University, Father René Chamussy, who provided 1,300 m² in the basement of the new campus. After careful planning and design, the museum officially opened its doors in October 2013. Within a short time, it earned the status of one of the world's most significant private mineralogical collections.

The name "mim" is deeply symbolic: it is the 24th letter of the Arabic alphabet, which begins the words for "museum," "minerals," and "mines" in Arabic. Today, the exhibition features about 2,500 specimens, representing not only scientific value but also the aesthetic perfection created by nature over millions of years.

A special place in the museum's history is held by the expansion of its fossil collection. The halls display unique evidence of ancient life dating back 100 million years. The integration of modern technology into the historical narrative of the exhibition has allowed MIM to become a modern, world-class educational center.

To simply enjoy the beauty of the glowing crystals and take a quick look at the main displays, about 2 hours is usually sufficient. This time allows you to appreciate the scale of the collection and take memorable photos of the most striking exhibits.

However, if you plan to study the information boards in detail, watch the educational films, and interact with the digital displays, you should set aside 3–4 hours for your visit. The museum is designed so that each zone reveals new facets of science and art, and you certainly won't want to rush.

The MIM Mineral Museum welcomes guests from Tuesday to Sunday. Please note that there is a break in the middle of the day, so plan your time in advance:

Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
Monday: Closed.

Since the schedule may change during public holidays, we recommend checking the information on the official website before your visit.

Exploring the surrounding area after your visit will make your day in the city even more fulfilling. The neighborhood around the Saint Joseph University campus has a calm atmosphere and is close to key cultural sites, allowing you to easily continue your tour.

Below are some interesting places and parks located relatively close to the museum: