Cult of Melqart

The Cult of Melqart was an ancient Phoenician religious tradition centered around Melqart, a deity associated with wealth, salvation, and the city of Tyre (modern Lebanon). Melqart was considered the protector and patron of sailors, traders, and the city itself. Worship involved rituals, offerings, and festivals honoring the god’s power to ensure prosperity and safety. As a key deity, Melqart’s cult spread through Phoenician colonies, notably Carthage and parts of Spain, influencing Mediterranean religious practices. It played a significant role in shaping local beliefs, emphasizing themes of maritime success, community identity, and divine favor.