Located on the southern coast of Lebanon, Tyre, also known as “Sour” in Arabic, is a gem waiting to be discovered. This ancient Phoenician jewel, built on an island, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Tyre is well known around the Mediterranean Sea and offers a unique blend of historical, architectural, and natural wonders. 

As mentioned in the Holy Bible, Tyre has a history stretching back to ancient times (3rd millennium B.C.). The city was one of the most important Phoenician sites and became the dominant trading center of the region under the rule of King Hiram I, who expanded the city by joining the islands and reclaiming land from the sea.

Tyre flourished, enjoying great wealth and prosperity, after establishing colonies like Cadiz in Spain and Carthage in Tunisia. It was, and still is, renowned for its glass-making industry and the production of rare purple dye from a sea snail called Murex. However, this fame drew the attention of conquerors such as the Babylonian king and, especially, Alexander the Great, who left the city in ashes and turned it into a peninsula.

The introduction of the Phoenician alphabet to Greece is yet another element this city is famous for. In fact, according to Greek mythology, Cadmus, the son of the king of Tyre, taught them the alphabet. His sister, Europa, gave her name to the continent, which is why Tyre is also called “The Mother of Europa”.

Today, hidden amidst the urban streets of the city, the ancient ruins of Tyre lie as silent witnesses to centuries of history, remnants of a bygone era. UNESCO declared Tyre a World Heritage Site for its archeological remains of the Roman empire, such as the necropolis, the aqueduct, and the hippodrome. On the city’s waterfront, you can also find the Roman baths, palaestras, and streets paved with mosaics. Since a good part of the ruins are submerged underwater, local scuba divers offer amazing tours. This allows tourists to enjoy the fascinating sights of this historical heritage site.

On top of that, Tyre is popular for having some of the best beaches in Lebanon. The sandy beach, coupled with crystal-clear water, attracts thousands of visitors every year. Not to mention the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, which is a protected area often visited by sea turtles.

Walking enthusiasts can visit the Old Souk, the port, or even take a stroll through the beautiful alleys of old streets and ancient houses. It’s a great opportunity as well to experience the charm and warm hospitality of the locals. In the evening, a pleasant promenade along the Corniche, lined with various cafes and restaurants, will bless your eyes with a breathtaking view of the sea and spectacular sunsets. 

Tyre is a vibrant city that will enchant every visitor with its historical legacy and biodiversity. Only those who have seen Tyre with their own eyes can truly understand the beauty of the Queen of the Seas.