Hidden inside the souqs and close to Hotel Yacoub, the beautiful Ottoman Debbane Palace is a must see when visiting Saida. It was built as a traditional Arab private residence in 1721 and remained a family home until 1978. After the Debbane family acquired the palace, two upper floors were added in 1920, both displaying a more European style architecture. In 1978, the Civil War forced the family out, after which the building became a refugee shelter for five years. Destroyed by war, the palace was restored in 2000 and reopened for visitors in 2001. The palace is open daily from 9:00 until 17:00 (until 18:00 in high season), except on Fridays. There is no entrance fee, although donations are welcomed. The palace is currently under restoration and is expected to re-open its doors in the summer of 2017.