Some researchers trace the name Zgharta to the Semitic language, meaning “surrounding,” and referring to the fact that the town was once surrounded by a wall. Other researchers believe the name is Aramaic in origin and stands for “castle and fortress.”
Tradition relates the establishment of modern Zgharta to the early Ottoman period, when a military convoy under the command of an Ottoman officer stopped in Ehden and was warmly welcomed for three days by the residents under severe weather conditions. The officer was impressed by the hospitality of residents and promised to give them a spot on the coast where they could spend the winter season. This new winter residence was called Zgharta. The Church of Saydet Zgharta is considered among the richest churches in Lebanon and houses religious books and scripts from the work of Ehden writers.