Sidon, a port city on the coast 48km south of Beirut, was one of the most remarkable Phoenician cities around the 12th century BC and reached its peak during the Persian Empire (550-330 BC).
It was well known, in the ancient times for the production of Phoenician glass and Purple dye.
The Crusaders left their mark with the Sea Castle, Khan el Franj and modern Sidon can be found in the souks - a very lively place, regrouping together traders of all kinds, with authentic artisans, restaurants and cafes.