Rehabilitation & Beautification of Saydet Zgharta District

Location: Saydet Zgharta District (One of Zgharta’s oldest historic neighborhoods)

Project Journey & Community Impact:

• Grassroots Origins: Started as a modest volunteer effort by ZZYM members to strip concrete plaster and uncover the authentic, ancient stone architecture of the narrow alleys.
• Community-Driven Momentum: Inspired by the visible progress, the initiative expanded through local volunteer work, donations from residents and employees, free materials from store owners, and support from expatriates.
• Comprehensive Restoration: Evolved into a full-scale neighborhood restoration, enhancing lighting, stonework, doors, shutters, and street aesthetics.
• Sustainable Local Development: Beyond physical restoration, ZZYM launched a economic development plan to help residents hold onto their heritage homes and leverage them for sustainable local income rather than leasing them below value.