On Saturday, December 6, Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) representatives headed to Zahle’s Municipal Palace for the launch of the Saïd Akl Museum project, an initiative presenting the vision and early concept of a future AI-powered cultural space honoring the Lebanese poet and author. The event, held under the patronage of the President of the Republic, drew notable figures, including Minister of Culture Dr. Ghassan Salameh, representing President Joseph Aoun; Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri; Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam; Mayor of Greater Zahle Eng. Salim Ghazali; and President of the Zahle Cultural Council Christine Zaatar Maalouf. NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury attended the ceremony, which was moderated by Majed Bou Hadir, Director of the Office of Public Affairs and Protocol, and welcomed a distinguished audience including ministers, parliamentarians, ambassadors, judges, security officials, party and religious leaders, writers, poets, and artists.
The event began with a short documentary produced by NDU, highlighting Saïd Akl’s milestones and major life events. Featuring touching reflections by Marie-Rose Amidi, guardian of Akl’s legacy, and excerpts from the writer himself, the documentary served as a heartfelt tribute to one of Lebanon’s most inspirational literary figures.
Speaking from the heart of Zahle, Eng. Ghazali paid tribute to Saïd Akl, the towering voice who saw Lebanon as an eternal message and Zahle as the pulse of its identity. He recalled Akl’s famous conviction that “after God, worship Lebanon,” a belief rooted in the city that shaped him and gave the nation some of its strongest words. Ghazali reminded the audience that the moment was not about inaugurating a completed space, but about introducing a cultural project that aims to build a digital landmark worthy of Zahle and one of its most enduring poets. In partnership with the Zahle Cultural Council and NDU, the city is developing an AI-powered museum experience designed to bring Akl’s legacy to life for new generations, turning his genius into a bridge between memory and the future.
Maalouf also took the stage to deliver a powerful speech. She emphasized the role of Lebanese cities like Zahle in shaping writers such as Akl and the enduring power of his writings, which continue to elevate Lebanon’s cultural standing. “No matter what, the voice of Saïd Akl could never be silenced. His words still echo today, and they resonate with everyone. Today, and on the 11th year after his passing, we are proud to announce the launch of the new AI-powered Saïd Akl museum.” Her speech was followed by a documentary illustrating how the idea behind the project took shape.
In his address, Fr. Khoury paid tribute to Saïd Akl and reflected on the challenge of speaking about such a towering figure. He described Zahle as a city that awakens like a poem, the place Akl loved and elevated through his words. The museum project, titled “Saïd Akl… If He Could Speak,” is envisioned as more than a collection of manuscripts, books, and personal items. It aims to become a living space where artificial intelligence brings Akl’s vision, voice, and philosophy to life for new generations. Fr. Khoury restated NDU’s role as guardian of Akl’s legacy, preserving his writings, recordings, and dreams while making them accessible for learning and inspiration. He thanked the Municipality of Zahle, the Cultural Council, and all contributors who made this initiative possible, calling the future museum a bridge from memory to imagination that will ensure Akl’s creativity, identity, and spirit continue to inspire Lebanon. His address was followed by an artistic segment featuring a recitation of Akl’s poetry by acclaimed artist Nicolas El-Osta, adding a moving cultural dimension to the event.
Dr. Salameh conveyed the greetings of the President of the Republic, the Speaker of Parliament, and the Prime Minister, sharing their hope that the project would grow into a lasting cultural landmark for Zahle. Throughout his address, he spoke of poetry as a living bridge between past and present, recalling how he found solace, courage, and inspiration in Saïd Akl’s verses during challenging times. Dr. Salameh also praised Zahle as a city of poets whose words have shaped the hearts and minds of generations, and he acknowledged the work of the municipal and cultural councils, together with NDU, in advancing this cultural vision. He concluded by reflecting on the project’s use of artificial intelligence, noting that while technology can create an interactive experience around Akl’s work, the emotional depth of his poetry remains uniquely human, making the initiative both innovative and deeply meaningful for future visitors.
As the Saïd Akl Museum project takes its first public steps, Zahle embraces a renewed cultural vision. Through the partnership of NDU, the Zahle Cultural Council, and the Municipality of Zahle, the legacy of one of Lebanon’s greatest poets moves toward a future where his voice, imagination, and love for Lebanon will continue to reach new generations.