Temple of Eshmun

The Eshmun Temple (Arabic معبد اشمون ) is a Phoenician sanctuary in Lebanon, which dates back to the 6th century BC. Consecrated the temple was the healing and fertility god Eshmun, who was also the god of the Phoenician city of Sidon. The sanctuary is located about a kilometer from the present Sidon away.

History

The choice of location was based presumably on the source that originates at the temple. The original temple complex is still clearly visible. On display is still a massive capital. In addition, rising on the hillside two platforms that may have been used for sacrificial rituals. A pedestal dates from the 6th century BC, the other from the fourth century BC. The oldest part of the complex dates from the 6th century BC. It is a pyramid-shaped building, which was probably under the prevailing Babylonian influence. In the 5th century AD, the temple was expanded by King Eshmunazar of Sidon and later by King Bodashtart. On the site of a church built in the Byzantine period. In addition, in the developed numerous mosaics. The Eshmun temple belongs since 1996 to the suggestion list as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.