Our Rich History

A Legacy of Excellence

The Chtaura Park Hotel Story

For more than 65 years, Chtaura Park Hotel has stood as a landmark of luxury and hospitality in the heart of Lebanon's Beqaa Valley. From its grand opening in 1959 to the present day, our hotel has welcomed presidents, diplomats, celebrities, and discerning travelers from around the world. Explore our remarkable history and discover how Chtaura Park Hotel became an iconic destination that continues to blend tradition with innovation.

1956

The Beginning

The beginning of Chtaura Park Hotel

Located in the smiling plain of the Beqaa, is the Park Hotel, the "reverie" hotel of Najib Hankash, a Lebanese businessman, who in September 1956 envisioned building a luxurious hotel in the heart of the Beqaa valley. With a large group of investors and in the presence of President Kamil Chamoun, Mr. Hankash founded "La Société des Hotȇls Modernes".

1959

The Grand Opening

The grand opening of Chtaura Park Hotel

Chtaura Park Hotel was inaugurated in 1959 and quickly became the favorite destination of Arab and Lebanese politicians as well as honeymooners, establishing itself as a premier luxury hotel in the region.

1960

The Conference of the Arab Ministers

Arab Ministers Conference

The hotel hosted its first major diplomatic event, the Conference of the Arab Ministers, cementing its reputation as a prestigious venue for high-level political gatherings.

1962

The Conference of the Arab Leagues

Arab Leagues Conference

Building on its growing reputation, Chtaura Park Hotel was selected to host the important Conference of the Arab Leagues, further establishing the hotel's position in regional diplomacy.

1964

The Conference of the Lebanese "Kataeb"

Lebanese Kataeb Conference

The Conference of the Lebanese "Kataeb" took place at Chtaura Park Hotel, highlighting the hotel's importance in national political affairs and its role in Lebanon's developing history.

1970

First Syrian-Lebanese Summit

Syrian-Lebanese Summit

Syrian President Hafez Al-Assad and his Lebanese counterpart, President Sleiman Franjieh, met in Chtaura Park Hotel in the first ever Syrian-Lebanese summit, a historic diplomatic event that further elevated the hotel's prestige.

1976

Constitutional Milestone

President Elias Sarkis Constitutional Right

Chtaura Park Hotel was the place where President Elias Sarkis established the "constitutional right," marking another significant moment in Lebanese political history that took place within our walls.

1976

New Era

Nicolas Khoury Acquisition

Chtaura Park Hotel was acquired by businessman and Minister Nicolas Khoury, who transformed the hotel into an international Five Star establishment. The hotel's architecture was redesigned to beautifully blend Eastern and Western civilizations, creating its distinctive character and appeal.

1989

Presidential Election

Election of President Elias Hrawi

The Election of Lebanese President Elias Hrawi took place at Chtaura Park Hotel, adding another significant political milestone to the hotel's illustrious history.

1996

Historic Peace Talks

Warren Christopher Peace Talks

US Secretary of State, Warren Christopher, met at Chtaura Park Hotel with Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and President of the Lebanese Congress Nabih Berri. During this meeting, terms were discussed for the ceasefire understanding that halted a 16-day Israel bombing blitz against Hizbollah guerrillas in Lebanon.

2000

The Legacy Continues

Rita Khoury Takes Leadership

Rita Khoury, daughter of Minister Nicolas Khoury, was appointed as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, a position she continues to hold. Under her leadership, a major renovation was undertaken, skillfully blending luxury with antique touches to preserve the hotel's historic character while meeting modern expectations.

Present Day

Continuing Excellence

Chtaura Park Hotel Today

Many years have passed with success and splendor, and more years lie ahead with creativity and innovation. Today, Chtaura Park Hotel continues to honor its rich history while embracing modern luxury, remaining a beacon of hospitality excellence in Lebanon and the wider region.

"Our history is not just a timeline of events, but a testament to the enduring vision of luxury hospitality that has made Chtaura Park Hotel an institution in Lebanon for generations."
Rita Nicolas Khoury, CEO & Chairman