Libya has been shrouded in controversy for much of its history, but since the United Nations lifted sanctions against it in 2003, travellers from all over the world have embarked on her shores eager to uncover the mystery and history behind this proud nation. One of Libya’s biggest tourism draw cards is its cultural heritage with the country boasting three classical ruins landmarks, which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The citys of Leptis Magna And sabrata, the main attractions for those visiting Libya.
Mitiga International Airport (Google Map)
2 Hours Before Flight Time
Leptis Magna is 100km south east of the capital Tripoli and is located on the country’s Mediterranean coastline. Leptis is the largest Roman city in Libya and its artifacts and remains are amongst the best preserved and most complete in the region; it further has the added benefit of not being as over-populated as some other Roman constituencies found in North Africa and Southern Europe. Leptis is believed to have been discovered as early as 7BC by the Phoenicians and eventually formed a part of the new Roman province in Africa that had taken control in 23BC.
Sabratha, just 65km west of the capital Tripoli, is one of Libya’s greatest Roman cities and extensively documents the rich elite dwellings of Roman North Africa. The Sabratha Museum is a classic tribute to this era with its stunning collection of colourful mosaics being one of the facility’s most prominent features.
Arrive in Tripoli, the capital of Libya and transferred to your hotel.
After breakfast, travel east overland to spectacular Leptis Magna. This ancient city was founded by the Phoenicians as a trading post, but it wasn’t until the Romans occupied it in the first century AD that it became a major center of commerce and culture. Explore the sprawling site’s well-preserved ruins and envision the lives of ancient Romans as you visit the Theater, the Punic market, the Roman baths After lunch, return to Tripoli.
This morning, drive west to of Tripoli to the Roman ruins of Sabratha. Founded by the Canaanites in the sixth century BC, this sprawling city has been occupied by the Carthaginians, Phoenicians and eventually by Rome, in 46 BC. Explore Sabratha’s most spectacular site, the Theater. Constructed during Emperor Commodus’ reign (AD 161–192), this architectural wonder features a three-story backdrop of columns. Other monuments include the Temple of Serapes and the Temple of Hercules. After lunch, return to Tripoli. This evening, enjoy dinner in downtown Tripoli.
Today, delve into the history and culture of Tripoli, considered one of the oldest urban centers in the world. In the morning, visit the Museum of Tripoli known as the Red Castle Museum, which contains a priceless collection of ancient Greek and Roman objects. Stop in the Old City, pulsing with the sights and sounds of everyday life that has remained unchanged for centuries. Here, meander through souks, stopping to smell herbs and spices and see handmade goods. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of courtyards, alleyways and homes built over the centuries — a kaleidoscopic showcase of the architecture and art of Tripoli’s many former rulers. Later today, board your homebound flight.
