city of Sidon (Saida) - 5 Piastre

The theme of this stamp is the ancient maritime city of Sidon (Saida), focusing on the Sidon Sea Castle, a medieval fortress built by the Crusaders on a small island connected to the mainland by a causeway. This illustration serves as a powerful symbol of Lebanon's strategic maritime history and its legacy as a crossroads for Mediterranean civilizations, from the Phoenicians to the Mamluks. By highlighting the fortress against the sea, the stamp conveys a message of resilience and defensive strength, reflecting Saida's historical role as a vital center of trade, craftsmanship, and naval importance that remains central to the country's southern identity.