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Libya

6

Reasons To
Visit Libya

  • Ancient Ruins

    Whether admiring some of the best-preserved ruins anywhere in the former Roman or Greek worlds, wandering through ancient Saharan trading posts, or pondering on the fate of the Garamantian civilisation that died out almost overnight, Libya's ancient ruins will be a major reason for your visit to the country.

    Ancient Ruins

  • Classical History

    The Greeks and Romans had a heavy presence in North Africa, largely confined to the fertile coastal strip. In the east, the Greeks had a strong presence in the cities of Cyrene, Apollonia and Ptolemais, whilst in the west the Roman cities of Leptis Magna and Sabratha are some of the most impressive found anywhere.

    Classical History

  • Desert Safaris

    With the fantastic rock art of the Sahara and the dunes and oases of the Ubari Sand Sea, the only way to get around is in a self-supported 4WD expedition. The solitude is a major draw, and because it's so far from any towns or cities, the night sky is brilliant with stars.

    Desert Safaris

  • Oases

    In the Ubari Sand Sea lie a series of lakes that fulfil every childhood fantasy of a desert oasis. Hidden deep amongst sand dunes, palm trees fringe limpid pools that perfectly reflect the clear blue skies.

    Oases

  • Rock art

    The oldest rock art in Libya dates back 12,000 years, through to more recent pieces about 2,000 years old. The older pieces tell of a more fertile time when giraffe, elephants, hippos and fighting cats roamed the landscape: a bizarre contrast with the stunning desert scenery that now surrounds the area.

    Rock art

  • Saharan Cities

    Although relatively accessible today, Ghadames was once a watchword for hostile cities on the fringe of the Sahara that traded in gold and slaves arriving from across the desert.

    Saharan Cities

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Excursions in Libya: Leptis Magna & Villa Silleen

Leptis Magna, one of the "Three Cities" or "Tripoli", was originally a trading post for the Phoenicians and was later controlled by Carthage (in modern-day Tunisia).

The Severan Basilica, Leptis Magna, Libya
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Leptis Magna & Villa Silleen

Tripoli, Libya
  • Culture & History

Leptis Magna, one of the "Three Cities" or "Tripoli", was originally a trading post for the Phoenicians and was later controlled by Carthage (in modern-day Tunisia). After the fall of Carthage the city became part of the Roman Empire and during Emperor Augustus' reign (27 BC to AD 14), developed into a true Roman city, with its own coins, entertainment venues and triumphal monuments.

Located about an hour and a half's drive from Tripoli, Leptis is one of the most extensive and best preserved Roman cities in North Africa. The ruins of theatres and amphitheatres, baths and basilicas are evidence of an important and prosperous component of the Roman Empire. Indeed, it was the birthplace of the only African Roman Emperor, Septimus Severus (AD 146-211).

Much of the site is still to be properly excavated and it therefore takes a little imagination to envisage the Roman city. However, the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea and the isolation of the site from the modern town make Leptis an unmissable part of any trip to Libya.

Villa Silleen is situated between Leptis Magna and Tripoli and is the place to visit for an insight into the daily life of a well-to-do Byzantine family. The building is perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and has a fascinating range of mosaics and frescoes in its rooms and in the small garden. The eastern wing of the building comprises a small bath complex, complete with plunge pools and hot tubs and decorated with marble, mosaics and frescoes showing bath and sports scenes.

Further reading:
LibyaWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout LibyaCountry Guides

Other countries in North Africa & the Middle East:
EgyptIranJordanLebanonMoroccoOmanSyriaTunisia

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