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Murex Hill: Echoes of Ancient Phoenicia

Explore Murex Hill in Sidon, where the legacy of Phoenician purple dye production meets panoramic Mediterranean views and ancient history.

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Murex Hill in Sidon is an artificial mound formed over centuries from the discarded shells of murex snails, used by the Phoenicians to produce the famed Tyrian purple dye. Today, it offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant past and panoramic views, though it's partially covered by modern structures and a cemetery.

A brief summary to Murex hill

  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the hill and exploring the surrounding area.
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best views.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Sidon Sea Castle and the Old Souks for a comprehensive experience of Sidon's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Sidon Sea Castle, walk south along the coast. Murex Hill is located a short distance from the castle, near the Castle of St. Louis. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes. There are no entrance fees to access the area, though some parts may be inaccessible due to construction or private property.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus station in Sidon, take a local minibus or taxi towards the southern part of the city. Ask to be dropped off near the Sea Castle, and then walk south towards Murex Hill. Minibus fares are typically around LBP 2,000-4,000. A short taxi ride from the bus station to the Sea Castle area should cost approximately LBP 10,000-15,000.

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Discover more about Murex hill

Murex Hill, located south of Sidon's sea castle, is a testament to the city's rich Phoenician heritage and its prominence in the ancient world. This artificial hill, rising 50 meters high and stretching 100 meters long, was created by the accumulation of refuse from the purple dye factories that thrived in Sidon during Phoenician times. The Phoenicians extracted a vibrant purple pigment from the Murex trunculus snail, a dye so rare and prized that it became a symbol of royalty. Sidon was one of the most important city-states in Phoenicia, known for its wealth, commercial enterprise, and religious significance. The city's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it a key trading hub, connecting sea routes with inland trade networks. Murex Hill stands as a reminder of Sidon's economic power and the ingenuity of its people. Today, Murex Hill is partially covered by houses, buildings, and a cemetery, making it less accessible than in the past. However, broken murex shells can still be seen on the lower part of the hill, offering a tangible connection to Sidon's ancient industry. Despite the encroachment of modern construction, the hill remains a significant archaeological site, with mosaic tiling suggesting that Roman buildings once stood there. Visitors can explore the remnants of old structures, including walls and foundations, providing a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the Phoenicians. Climbing to the top of Murex Hill rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Sidon, blending ancient history with the beauty of the present-day city.

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