More About Attractions in Tripoli
While modern attractions such as the zoo, planetarium and water sport facilities are popular in Tripoli, the Libyan capital is most famous for its ancient landmarks. A visit to Tripoli Medina, for example, will transport you to a historical walled city that originally shielded the local community against attacks and invasions during Roman occupation. Explore its narrow aisles to find stunning mosques, bustling markets (‘souks’) and elaborate houses, each offering a unique backdrop to holiday photos.
A number of important sites are located on the outskirts of Tripoli Medina too, such as Red Castle (Assaraya al-Hamra). The impressive complex includes a 10,000 square metre national museum, established in 1919, which is considered one of the world’s most important museums due to its unique collection of artefacts, from marble and stone statues to grave covers and tombs, plus a range of dinosaur bones and fossils.
Leptis Magna is another well-known attraction, located around 130km east of Tripoli. This unspoilt collection of Roman Ruins has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was founded by Phoenicians a few centuries before Tripoli. It became one of Africa's most important cities under the Roman emperor Tiberius and although Leptis Magna was abandoned centuries later, prominent features - such as the marketplace, theatre and basilica - have been preserved, making it a must-see while in Tripoli.