Tírians

Tírians were an ancient Semitic people who inhabited the coastal region of Phoenicia. Their most famous city, also called Tyrus, was a major maritime trading power throughout antiquity. The Tyrians were renowned for their seafaring skills and established colonies across the Mediterranean, most notably Carthage.

The economy of Tyre was largely based on its extensive trade network, importing raw materials and exporting finished goods. They were particularly famous for the production of Tyrian purple dye, a highly prized and expensive color derived from murex sea snails. This dye was a significant source of wealth for the city.

The Tyrians were skilled artisans and builders, known for their impressive architecture and craftsmanship. Their religious practices were centered around deities such as Melqart and Astarte. Throughout their history, Tyre maintained a degree of independence, though they often paid tribute to larger empires like the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Persians. The city was eventually conquered by Alexander the Great in 332 BCE after a lengthy siege. The legacy of the Tírians is tied to their role as influential traders and cultural disseminators in the ancient Mediterranean world.