Exploring the many attractions in and around Tripoli

Tripoli the capital of Libya is also its largest city that is well developed and renowned for its Italian style architecture, in its old buildings.  It also serves as the primary seaport of the desert nation and is the commercial hub of Libya. It also has number of tourist attractions in and around its capital that are worth a visit.

There are quite a few top 5 star hotels in Tripoli, Libya which mainly cater to business travellers these days, on account of the political situation. Despite this there is a stream of visitors who come to explore the city’s unique attractions.

One of the best places to stay in the city whether on a business trip or on holiday, is the Corinthia Hotel Tripoli.  It offers its guests the finest of comforts, a luxurious ambience and excellent customer service. While in the capital some of the sites to visit and around Tripoli are:    

Jamahiriya Museum:  It is Libya’s national museum and houses a fine collection of numerous artefacts related to the nation’s historical past. These include relics dating to Roman and Greek times when they occupied this desert nation. There are a number of priceless artefacts that have been recovered from World Heritage Sites that can be seen on display in the museum.

Assaraya al-Hamra:  It is also known locally as the Red Castle.  It has a massive courtyard which houses a number of statues and fountains that date back to the Ottoman Dynasty when they held sway over the country. The magnificent palace delineates Libya’s glorious historical past which is evident in the fabulous architecture of the castle.

Gurgi and Karamanli Mosques:  These two are known to be out of the most ornate and beautiful mosques to be seen in the entire country. They are testament to the exceptional artistic calibre of the local artists. These are extremely picturesque, which serve as fine examples of Islamic architecture at its very best. 

Leptis Magna: It has been rightly described as the jewel of Libya. The site at Leptis Magna showcases ruins that date to the Augustan period. It was the time the city's first forum was constructed.  Apart from other remains in the area are the ancient Temples of Antaoninus and Cyhele that in the Byzantine period was converted to a church and known as the Basilica.

Sabratah: It is one of the most important World Heritage Sites in Libya and is located along the stunningly scenic Mediterranean coastline. One of the main attractions in Sabratah is its magnificent Amphitheatre. The site also has numerous temples, public baths and fountains that feature ornately designed mosaics, which can be seen both in the museum as well as on site. There also are relics to be found that date back to the Byzantine period.

Note: Please check the latest travel advisory issued by the UK Home and Foreign office and the US State Department before you decide to visit Libya.