Leptis Magna and Environs

The Journey to Leptis Magna

Leptis Magna is the most impressive ancient city in Libya and one o f t h e g r e a t e s t c l a s s i c a l s i t e s i n N o r t h A f r i c a . I t s c h e q u e r e d history and its evocative ruins are sure to leave a strong impression on any visitor. If time is very short it is possible to see the ruins on a day trip from Tripoli. It would be far better, however, to take your time and spend a couple of days getting to know the ancient streets and buildings. There are, in addition, several interesting towns to explore en route from Tripoli to Leptis, and beyond Leptis to the east.

The journey from Tripoli to Leptis Magna will take you east along the coast road to Tajura. This used to be a market centre where villagers met once a week from the surrounding countryside to sell their produce and buy food and clothing. Nowadays it is fast becoming an extended Tripoli suburb, with expensive villas and modern facilities.

The most important building in Tajura is the Mosque of Murad Agha, who was the first Turkish governor of Tripoli in 1551. It looks very plain from the outside, but inside, the large arcaded prayer hall is supported by 48 granite columns which were said to have been brought from the ruins of Leptis Magna.

Travelling on towards the town of Khoms you come to a very charming little hotel called Hotel Nagazza (tel. 0031-626691/92). Approximately 18 km west of Khoms there is a left turning leaving the main highway and going into the wooded hills. The main building has six bedrooms and two suites, one of which even has a jacuzzi. There is a comfortable lounge, a small dining room and a terrace overlooking the garden. Just down the road there are eleven chalets, which are not as stylish. This is a beautiful place to stay, 61

Opposite: Triumphal archway at Leptis Magna