A Living Heritage of Lebanese
Immigration in Brazil
A Living Heritage of Lebanese Immigration in Brazil
A Living Heritage of Lebanese
Immigration in Brazil

PRESENTATION

The National Confederation of Lebanese-Brazilian Entities (CONFELIBRA) is presenting the official restoration project for the Lebanese Consular Residence, located in Botafogo, in Rio de Janeiro’s South Zone. This neoclassical mansion, dating from the early 20th century, is more than just a diplomatic headquarters—it is a living symbol of the Lebanese presence in Brazil. Donated by the community itself, the building holds memories of historic meetings and decades of service to the Lebanese diaspora. This restoration represents a commitment to memory, culture, and the continuity of relations between Lebanon and Brazil.

HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE

“This building is a living archive of our collective memory.”

  • Donated by the Lebanese community.
  • Neoclassical architecture featuring columns, pediments, and a central dome.
  • Listed as a heritage site by the city of Rio de Janeiro.
  • Hosted historic visits, including that of Lebanese President Camille Chamoun, as well as meetings with Getúlio Vargas.
  • A landmark of Lebanese culture and identity in Brazil.

PURPOSES

The restoration project aims to:

PRESERVE THE ORIGINAL FEATURES

The restoration seeks to maintain the authenticity of the Lebanese Consular Residence by preserving its original materials, decorative elements, and construction techniques, respecting its history and cultural value.

STRUCTURAL REINFORCEMENT

Interventions will be carried out to ensure the stability of the Lebanese Consular Residence, reinforcing foundations, beams, and pillars using techniques compatible with the original construction while respecting its historical value.

REVITALIZE LOCAL VALUE

The restoration recovers the historical value of the Lebanese Consular Residence, promoting its integration with the local landscape, community, and the enhancement of its surroundings.

MODERNIZE WITH RESPECT TO HERITAGE

The modernization of the Lebanese Consular Residence includes improvements in accessibility and comfort while preserving historic elements and discreetly and respectfully integrating technology.

PLANNED INTERVENCTIONS

The replacement of deteriorated roof tiles and gutters is planned, using materials that respect the original characteristics. This intervention aims to protect against leaks and preserve the integrity and durability of the roof.

Inspection and maintenance of the electrical system of the Lebanese Consular Residence are planned, ensuring safety and proper functioning while preserving the integrity of the installation.

Restoration of floors and stained glass is planned, employing specialized techniques that preserve their original features. This intervention aims to conserve materials, recover historical aesthetics, and ensure the durability of these elements.

Painting will be carried out following strict heritage criteria. The intervention includes proper surface preparation, selection of paints compatible with the original characteristics, and careful application to preserve authenticity and protect materials.

The recovery of doors, windows, and gardens is planned using techniques that preserve materials and original features. This intervention aims to restore functionality and aesthetics of architectural elements, conserve historic landscaping, and ensure the integrity and heritage value of the property.

Installation and upgrading of the external lighting system are planned to guarantee adequate visibility and architectural enhancement. Additionally, a security camera system will be implemented for constant monitoring, protecting the heritage and ensuring the safety of the property and its users.

Tree pruning and landscaping maintenance are planned using techniques that respect plant health and garden aesthetics. This intervention aims to preserve environmental balance, enhance the green heritage, and ensure harmony of the outdoor space.

CONCLUSION

More than restoring a building, this project honors the memory of Lebanese immigration and strengthens the cultural ties between our peoples.

CONFELIBRA invites everyone—descendants, partners, and friends—to join this cause:
Preserving heritage. Strengthening identity. Inspiring the future.

SOME PHOTOS OF THE RESTORATION

CREATION OF THE COMMITTEE OF CONTRIBUTORS FOR THE RESTORATION OF THE LEBANON CONSULAR RESIDENCE IN RIO DE JANEIRO

CONSIDERING THAT:

The Lebanese Consular Residence in Rio de Janeiro, located at Rua Dona Mariana, No. 44, is a historical, architectural, and cultural landmark of Lebanese immigration in Brazil;

The property, built in neoclassical style and listed as Historical Heritage, was the first official diplomatic headquarters of Lebanon in Brazil, having been donated by the Lebanese community in the early 20th century;

The mansion is currently in a critical state of preservation, showing advanced signs of deterioration and facing a real risk of irreversible loss of its historical, architectural, and structural value, thus requiring urgent restoration to preserve its original features and ensure its full functionality;

It is hereby resolved to establish the:
Contributors Committee for the Restoration of the Lebanese Consular Residence in Rio de Janeiro

IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED TO ESTABLISH THE:

CONTRIBUTORS COMMITTEE FOR THE RESTORATION OF THE LEBANESE CONSULAR RESIDENCE IN RIO DE JANEIRO

PURPOSE

The Committee aims to mobilize and coordinate voluntary contributions through sponsorship quotas, with the aim of financially supporting the complete restoration of the Consular Residence, in recognition of its historical, architectural and symbolic value.

COMMITTEE STRUCTURE

The Committee will be composed of various bodies and entities representing the Lebanese community in Rio de Janeiro and Brazil, with a focus on institutional strengthening, strategic coordination and the promotion of Lebanese culture and identity.

INSTITUCIONAL SUPERVISION

Consulado Geral do Líbano no Rio de Janeiro
Body responsible for the institutional supervision of the Committee, ensuring diplomatic legitimacy and alignment with the official interests of the Lebanese State.

GENERAL COORDINATION

Confederação Nacional das Entidades Líbano-Brasileiras (CONFELIBRA)
Responsible for the overall coordination of the Committee’s activities, fundraising, national articulation of the entities, and representation at the national level.

FINANCIAL COORDINATION

Câmara de Comércio Líbano-Brasileira do Rio de Janeiro
Responsible for financial management, establishment of commercial partnerships, and transparent reporting of the Committee’s activities.

PERMANENTLY MEMBERS

Confederação Nacional das Entidades Líbano-Brasileiras (CONFELIBRA)

Câmara de Comércio Líbano-Brasileira do Rio de Janeiro

Academia de Letras e Artes Líbano-Brasileira

Liga Libanesa do Brasil

União Cultural Mundial Libanesa

Federação das Entidades Líbano-Brasileiras do Estado do Rio de Janeiro

Clube Líbano Fluminense

  • Câmara de Comércio Líbano-Brasileira do Rio Grande do Sul

Associação Cultural Líbano-Friburgo

Igreja Maronita

Igreja Ortodoxa Antioquina

Igreja Melquita

Partido Kataeb

Partido Forças Libanesas

VOLUNTEERS MEMBERS

Volunteers who trained with support quotas and participated in mobilization actions, strengthening our mission and transforming realities. Join us and make a difference!

COMMITTEE DUTIES

FUNDRAISING

Conduct the fundraising campaign according to previously defined contribution quotas;

AWARENESS

Raise awareness among the Lebanese community and its supporters about the historical and symbolic importance of the Consular Residence;

COMMUNICATION

Maintain constant communication with the Consulate General of Lebanon in Rio de Janeiro to ensure transparency in accountability and results;

TRANSPARENCY

Ensure the transparency and credibility of the entire collection process, through internal and external audits;

DATA DISCLOSURE

Publicly disclose the financial results and progress of the project on the official website: www.residencialibanonorio.com.br;

SEARCH FOR PARTNERSHIPS

Promote initiatives to recognize the project’s benefactors and collaborators.