Port of Beirut – 4 August.

On the 4th of August 2020, a massive explosion in the Port of Beirut caused extensive suffering to the people of the city, massive damage to its economic, physical, and cultural fabric. The explosion took away more than 200 souls, wounded 6,000 injuries of whom at least 150 acquired a physical disability, caused psychological harm, damaged 77,000 apartments, and displaced over 300,000 homeless. At least three children between the ages of 2 and 15 lost their lives. Thirty-one children required hospitalization, 1,000 children were injured, and 80,000 children were left without a home. The explosion affected 163 public and private schools and rendered half of Beirut’s healthcare centres non-functional, and it impacted 56 percent of the private businesses. There was extensive damage to the infrastructure, including transport, energy, water supply and sanitation. It literally destroyed 7 million dreams. Practitioners are warning of a national mental health emergency as people begin to show signs of trauma from the explosion, including nightmares, flashbacks, crying, anxiety, anger and exhaustion. It left mental wounds in those it didn’t wound physically, and destroyed the ability for many people to have the most basic form of trust required to live with peace of mind. A memorial landmark is set to commemorate the innocent souls, introduce users to the history of Beirut, honour the effected lives, and send a message of hope. This memorial is the country’s institution concerned with exploring the explosion day, documenting its impact, and examining its continuing significance. It’s about honouring those innocent souls who were killed in 2020. It also links the past to the present and enable people to remember and respect the sacrifice of those who died and fought. The remains of Silos are chosen because of its importance in protecting half of Beirut from the blast as it is called “The national symbol of strength”, as well as it gives the families of the victims a sense of belonging, continuity, and a little hope. It is a breath of fresh air, the sense that it’s all going to be okay, and the innocent souls will stay with us forever.