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Temple of Eshmun: A Phoenician Sanctuary of Healing

Explore the ancient Temple of Eshmun near Sidon, Lebanon, a Phoenician sanctuary dedicated to the god of healing and renewal.

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The Temple of Eshmun, located near Sidon, Lebanon, is an ancient Phoenician temple dedicated to Eshmun, the god of healing. Constructed in the 7th century BC, the temple complex features a blend of architectural styles reflecting centuries of expansion and foreign influence. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and discover the rich history of this once-sacred site.

A brief summary to Temple of Eshmun

  • H9PW+7J6, Bqosta, LB
  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and requires walking.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Check weather conditions prior to visiting.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Sidon Souk, a central point in the city, head east towards the Sidon Sea Castle. Continue straight until you reach the main road, then turn left onto the road leading to Bqosta. Follow this road for approximately 3 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to the Temple of Eshmun. The site will be on your right, a short walk after the Bqosta sign.

  • Public Transport

    From Sidon, locate a local bus heading towards Bqosta near the Sidon Souk. Ask the driver to drop you off at the closest stop to the Temple of Eshmun. The bus ride should take about 15-20 minutes. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the Temple of Eshmun, which is approximately a 10-minute walk. A single bus fare will typically cost around LBP 2,000 - 5,000.

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Discover more about Temple of Eshmun

Nestled near the Awali River, approximately 2 kilometers northeast of Sidon, Lebanon, lies the Temple of Eshmun, a testament to the Phoenician civilization and their reverence for Eshmun, the god of healing. This ancient sanctuary, established in the 7th century BC, served as a vital religious center for the Phoenicians, attracting pilgrims seeking healing and purification. The temple's construction was initiated by Sidonian king Eshmunazar II to celebrate the city's recovered wealth and stature. Over the centuries, the temple complex underwent significant expansion under various rulers, resulting in a fusion of architectural styles, including Phoenician, Achaemenid, Hellenistic, and Roman influences. The sanctuary features an esplanade, a grand court, and a monumental podium that once supported a Greco-Persian style marble temple. Ritual ablution basins, fed by canals from the Asclepius River (now Awali), were used for therapeutic and purificatory practices. Rediscovered in 1900 by treasure hunters, the Temple of Eshmun holds immense archaeological significance as the best-preserved Phoenician site in Lebanon. Excavations have unearthed numerous artifacts, including inscriptions with Phoenician texts, providing valuable insights into the history of the site and ancient Sidon. Although the temple suffered damage from earthquakes and periods of neglect, it remains a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking to connect with Lebanon's rich cultural heritage.

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