A Long and Glorious History :

An ancient city mentioned in the famous "El-Amarna letters" of the 4th century BC, Sidon has known many upheavals in the course of its 6.000-years history.

Standing proudly in the sea facing the assault of the wind and weather, the sea castle dates from the time of Crusaders, when Sidon was elevated to the rank of Seigniory of Sagette.

After visiting the castle, stop at the nearby Government Resthouse with its landscaped grounds overlooking the sea- a pleasant place for a cup of coffee or a meal. Sidon retains a number of remains from the Mamlouk and Ottoman periods, notably the Grand Mosque and the Khan-el-Franj.

The Grand Mosque is notable for its imposing structure, which resembles a fortress from the outside. Actually the building owes its high walls to the fact that it was built during the Crusader era by the Hospitalers of Saint John. Later it was transformed into a mosque by the Mamlouks.

Don't miss a tour around Sidon's medieval souks where you can find old mosque, Quranic schoos (Madrassas) and bathhouses, in addition to fascinating old shops.

Outside Sidon on the road leading from Beirut is the famous Phoenician temple dedicated to the healing god of Eshmoun. This temple has several basins that were used for ablutions by the sick. Carved figures of children which were used during the healing rituals were discovered here, and can be seen today at the National Museum. This fascinating site also has remains from Roman and Byzantine times.