1. Leptis Magna

Leptis, one of the greatest Roman cities in Africa, was founded in the 7th century BC as a Phoenician settlement, then flourished under Roman rule, especially during the reign of Emperor Septimius Severus (born in Leptis).

The city is characterized by its monumental landmarks such as:

• Arch of Septimius Severus
• Amphitheater
• Imperial Baths
• Roman Market and Port

Leptis is a magnificent example of the blend of local architecture and classical Roman design.

2. Sabratha

A Phoenician city founded around the 5th century BC, it later became part of the Roman Empire.

Its most famous landmarks:

• The magnificent and exceptionally preserved Roman Theater
• Baths and Temples
• Mosaics and the ancient port

Sabratha was an important trading point on the Mediterranean route, and is considered one of the most beautiful coastal archaeological cities.

3. Oea (present-day Tripoli)

Oea was the third of the "Three Cities" (along with Leptis and Sabratha), and later became the city of Tripoli. It was founded as a Phoenician city, then developed during the Roman and Byzantine periods.

Although ancient Roman landmarks are integrated into the modern urban fabric, some ruins still stand:

• Arch of Marcus Aurelius
• Some remnants of ancient walls

Shahhat – Cyrene

A Greek city founded by migrants from the island of Thera (Santorini) around 630 BC. It became a center for philosophy and science in the ancient world, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural prominence.

Main landmarks:

• Temple of Zeus (one of the largest Greek temples)
• Agora (public square)
• Greek Theater
• Tomb of Battus and Temple of Apollo

Apollonia

It was the seaport of Cyrene, and later became an important center in the Byzantine era.

Characterized by:

• Ancient port
• Roman amphitheater overlooking the sea
• Byzantine Basilicas
• Paved streets and commercial warehouses

Ptolemais

A major city in the Ptolemaic and Roman eras, known for its elaborate urban planning, theaters, and markets.

Its landmarks:

• Royal Palace
• Complex network of cisterns
• Roman Theater
• Mosaics and public baths

Taucheira / Tocra

Founded by the Greeks as a coastal fortress, it flourished during the Roman and Byzantine eras.

Its main features:

• Defensive walls
• Temples and carved tombs
• Remains of ancient houses and markets

Qasr Libya (Olbia)

A small town famous for its Byzantine churches decorated with rare mosaics.

Key landmarks:

• Two Byzantine churches
• More than 50 mosaic panels depicting natural and historical scenes
• Small museum displaying original mosaics

Al-Hilal

A stunning coastal area combining green mountains and turquoise sea waters, considered one of the most beautiful natural and archaeological regions in eastern Libya.

Characterized by:

• A unique Byzantine church, located on a hilltop overlooking the coast, considered one of the oldest known churches in the region
• Breathtaking cliffs and secluded beaches with clear waters
• An ideal place for photography and relaxation amidst history and nature

Acacus Mountains

One of the greatest open-air museums of prehistoric art in the world, located near the city of Ghat. It contains thousands of rock carvings and paintings dating back more than 10,000 years, depicting scenes of daily life, extinct animals, and religious rituals.

Its terrain varies between:

• Sand dunes
• Stone arches
• Valleys sculpted by time

Wadi Mathkhandoush

Located in the Dahan Marzuq region, it is considered one of the richest sites for rock carvings. The carved rocks show images of elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles, reflecting climate change and the ancient environmental history of the region.

Its features:

• Rich in rock carvings
• Images of elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles
• Reflects climate change and environmental history

Desert Lakes

They form a unique spectacle amidst the sand dunes, and are among the rarest natural phenomena:

• **Gabroun:** The most famous lake, surrounded by palm trees and frequented by tourist trips
• **Mandara and Umm al-Maa:** Ideal lakes for camping and photography
• **Mafo:** A lake surrounded by stunning sand dunes, appearing like a magical mirage

Germa

The capital of the Garamantian kingdom, one of the oldest desert civilizations in North Africa. It includes urban ruins that indicate an advanced way of life, such as:

• Remains of dwellings and palaces
• Mass graves
• Irrigation canals and an advanced agricultural system
• Germa Museum displaying rare artifacts from the Garamantian era