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places of interest .. Tripolitania
Sabratha, one of the most important archaeological sites of western
Libya. Sabratha was selected as an emporium, or trading post, by Phoenician
merchants for its position 43 km west of Zuwara and 66 km east of Oea (present
Tripoli). Proof of this settlement consists of beaten floors alternating with
layers of wind-blown sand under the first permanent houses of Sabratha north of
the Forum. The floors indicate makeshift huts, and the depths of the layers of
loose sand show the length of periods during which the site was abandonned.
Sabratha as we see it today is first and foremost a creation of the Roman genius
for building cities. The Romans shaped it after the destruction of Carthage in
146 BC. and remained here until the vandals decided the fate of Sabratha in 455
Bc.
Leptis Magna, Leptis Magna is one of the best preserved cities of
antiquity, it is one of three famous cities in the Tripoli region (Greek
“Tripolis” means “three cities” ). The other two cities are Oea (now known as
Tripoli), and Sabratha. Leptis Magna was founded by the Phoenician merchants
around 1st millennium BC, using it as a trading station and occasional harbour.
Leptis rose to its peak of prosperity under the rule of the Roman Emperor
Septimius Severus( 193-211 AD Libyan born ). This prosperity continued during
the rule of the Severan Dynasty until 235 AD. Leptis is a must for the visitor
particularly the baths, the amphitheatre and the market.
Book your tour here
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