Tripoli station. A reflection of the enduring community strength of the Tripolitans.

The Lebanese railway, rich in cultural heritage, has been abandoned for over fifty years, with numerous restoration projects thwarted by political and economic instability. The Tripoli Train Station, one of Lebanon’s three major stations, stands as a historical landmark integral to the city's history. Recently, local resistance led the Railways Authority Director General to withdraw plans to convert part of the station into a truck parking lot. The station, spanning 50,000 square meters, showcases French architectural style and reflects Tripoli’s modern history, with nature reclaiming much of its structure. Initially funded and established by prominent Tripolitans in the early 1900s, the station flourished until World War I and subsequent political upheavals led to its decline. Despite several post-war restoration attempts, the station remained neglected. Community-driven initiatives, particularly by Friends of Tripoli Station (FTS), have sought to preserve its heritage, culminating in recent successful opposition to its commercial repurposing. This narrative highlights the pivotal role of community advocacy in preserving Tripoli's cultural and historical assets amidst governmental inaction.