description Isthmus of Tyre Overview
The Isthmus of Tyre is the land connection between the historic island city of Tyre and the coast of present-day Lebanon. Its origin lies in the causeway built by Alexander the Great during his siege of Tyre in 332 BCE, when stone, timber, and rubble were used to reach the fortified island. Sediment subsequently accumulated around the structure, transforming the former causeway into a permanent sandy isthmus.
help Isthmus of Tyre FAQ
How long did it take Alexander the Great to build the causeway to Tyre?
It took Alexander's forces roughly seven months to successfully complete the siege and construct the isthmus in 332 BCE. The project involved constant labor under heavy fire from the defending Tyrian forces.
What materials did Alexander's army use to build the Tyre causeway?
The causeway was originally constructed using rubble from the destroyed mainland city of Tyre, along with timber from nearby cedar forests. As the structure widened, massive stones and dirt were hauled into the sea to form a permanent land bridge.
Is the ancient Isthmus of Tyre still visible today?
Yes, the ancient causeway still exists today as a broad sandy peninsula that permanently connects the former island to mainland Lebanon. Centuries of silt accumulation and the original rubble have completely turned Tyre into a peninsula.
Why did Alexander the Great need to build a causeway to attack Tyre?
Tyre was heavily fortified on an island situated about half a mile off the Mediterranean coast, rendering land-based siege weapons useless. Alexander needed a land bridge to roll his massive siege towers close enough to breach the city's walls.
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