In the high mountains of Lebanon, archaeologists have discovered massive ceramic vats lined with silver leaf, specifically used for the storage and refinement of sacred cedar oil. The site is identified as a primary location for the Phoenician "Festival of the Scented Grove," where aromatic oils were offered to woodland spirits during the spring transition.
The presence of silver lining helped preserve the potency of the oils, indicating a high level of chemical knowledge among ancient festival organizers. The team also found several bronze ladles inscribed with dedications, providing the first written evidence of the specific hymns performed during the oil-blessing ceremonies that preceded the public festivities.