Saida (Zidon, Sidon) it means ‘fishery’ and is the third-largest city in Lebanon. Located 48 km south of Beirut, Saida was one of the most famous cities of the ancient world but today it is one of the least well known, because its archaeological relics have either been stolen and scattered or covered over by modern construction.

Archaeological evidence indicates that Saida was abandoned during the Middle Bronze Age and only repopulated during the Late Bronze Age. Much the same has been found at other Phoenician costal sites, like Tyre, but the reason for this is unknown. Saida fell under the influence of Egyptian rulers starting in 1450 BCE, then under Assyrian domination around 900 BCE.

Did you know that...
-Sidon was the name given to the city by the Phoenicians;in Arabic,"Saida"means fishing.
-Saida's famous sea castle was built by the Crusaders in the earlier 13th century.
-There are 4 mosques and 3 churches in the city.
-Saida's specialty is a delicious crumbly cookie called "Senioura".

Dont Miss...
-Saida's sea castle
-The Resthouse Saida,a restaurant nestled in a medieval castle
-The traditional souk and Khan El Franj
-The Audi Soap Factory