Echmoun

A unique Phoenician site in Lebanon 

The Temple of Echmoun, less than an hour from Beirut, is situated one kilometer from Saida (Sidon) in a lush valley of citrus groves on the Awwali River. The site is known locally as “Bustan esh-Sheikh.” Whether you visit in spring when the air is fragrant with blossoms, or early winter when the fruit is ripe, Echmoun is a special place to visit.

This Phoenician temple complex, dedicated to the healing god Echmoun, is the only Phoenician site in Lebanon that has retained more than its foundation stones. Building was begun at the end of the 7th century B.C., and later additions were made in the following centuries. Therefore, many elements near the original temple site were completed long after the Phoenician era, including a Roman-period colonnade, mosaics, a nympheum, and the foundations of a Byzantine church. All of these structures testify to the site's lasting importance.

Echmoun can be included in a visit to Saida (Sidon), or made an excursion of its own. Visitors with a sense of curiosity will find that several hours are easily filled exploring this ancient Phoenician site.