Deir Al-Qamar is unique in Lebanon, a town restored and maintained in a style many centuries old.Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Deir Al-Qamar not only preserves its grand feudal architecture, but its old stepped streets, walled gardens and picturesque corners as well.
Shortly after Emir Fakhreddine II came to power in 1590, a chronic water shortage in Baaqline forced him to move his capital to Deir Al-Qamar. There he ruled until his death in 1635. The town remained the residence of the governors of Lebanon until the 18^th century, when Emir Bechir II Chehab moved the capital to Beiteddine
The huge public square or midan, which was originally used for jousts and other equestrian contests, is surrounded by historic buildings. The large water fountain was added in the 19^th century.
In the square itself is Fakhreddine’s Mosque, constructed in 1493 and restored in the 16^th century by Emir Fakhreddine I Maan for his Muslim mercenary soldiers. Behind the mosque is a 19^th century leather-worker’s Souk or market, which today houses modern shops.

Beyond the souk is the Palace of Emir Younes Maan. Emir Younes, the brother of Emir Fakhreddine II, was army commander during Fakhreddine’s voluntary exile to Italy in 1613. Later, Emir Yousef Chehab (1770 - 1789) demolished the third story and used the stones to build his own residence, now the Serail or Municipal Palace.
The Silk Khan or Qaissariyyeh, located north of the Emir Yousef Chehab Serail, was built in 1595 during the reign of Fakhreddine II. 

It was designed in the classical Khan or caravansary style, and originally used as a public market place for jewellery and for silk. Today the khan makes a unique setting for cultural activities.
Nearby is the synagogue, which was built in the 17^th century to serve the local Jewish population, some of whom were part of the immediate entourage of Emir Fakhreddine II..

In the area of Deir A-Qamar not far from Kfarhim, a sign marks the right turn to Jahiliyeh. Once in the village, a path leads to the riverside, where water flows down the mountain in a series of cold pools and waterfalls, specially refreshing in the hot summer months.