During my visit to the Old City yesterday, I was reminded of Libya’s beauty and the incredible hospitality of its people.

One topic of discussion that continually arises in conversations is the potential for tourism in Libya. The BLBA fully understands that transforming tourism in Libya into a reality may take considerable time, and we are under no illusion of the steps that need to be taken to make aspirations an actuality. Nevertheless, I would like to highlight some destinations that showcase the country’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Some of the most notable attractions include:

  1. Leptis Magna: One of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in the Mediterranean, Leptis Magna boasts stunning architecture, including basilicas, theatres, and temples. It was once one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire.
  2. Cyrene: An ancient Greek city near the modern-day town of Shahhat, Cyrene is home to remarkable ruins, such as the Temple of Zeus, the Sanctuary of Apollo, and the ancient theatre.
  3. Sabratha, the ancient city, features well-preserved ruins, including a stunning Roman theatre considered one of the world’s finest examples. Other notable structures include the Temple of Isis, the Basilica of Justinian, and the remains of Roman villas with intricate mosaics.
  4. Tripoli’s Old City (Medina): The historic heart of the Libyan capital, Tripoli’s Old City, is filled with narrow alleys, traditional markets, and historic buildings. The Arch of Marcus Aurelius, the Red Castle, and the Gurgi Mosque are must-see sites.
  5. Sabha Castle, also called Fort Elena or Fortezza Margherita, is in the Libyan city of Sabha. It was constructed during the time of Italian colonisation. The fortress is well-known for being depicted on the back of the Libyan ten dinar banknotes.
  6. Ghadames: Known as the “Pearl of the Desert,” this ancient oasis town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its unique mud-brick architecture and labyrinthine streets make it a fascinating visitor destination.
  7. The Acacus Mountains: This UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwest Libya features stunning rock formations and prehistoric rock art, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
  8. The Sahara Desert: The vast Libyan portion offers incredible landscapes, from towering dunes to unique rock formations. Visitors can also explore ancient trade routes and oases.
  9. The Great Man-Made River: An engineering marvel, this massive network of pipelines transports water from underground aquifers in the Sahara Desert to cities along the Libyan coast.

These attractions, coupled with Libya’s pristine Mediterranean coastline and warm hospitality, can transform the country into a popular tourist destination once the right conditions are in place. The future of Libya and its potential for tourism rests within the capable hands of the Libyan people, who hold the key to unlocking the country’s potential.

Yours Faithfully,

Alex