Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna
Location: Khoms District, Libya
Year of Inscription: 1982
Criteria: (i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
Overview: Leptis Magna was a prominent city in the Roman Empire, founded in the 7th century BCE by the Phoenicians. It flourished under Roman rule, becoming one of the most important cities in North Africa. Today, the site contains some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, including a large amphitheater, a basilica, and a forum.
Prominent Features: The most notable features of Leptis Magna are the well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Severan Forum, which was the heart of the city's civic life, the amphitheater, which could seat over 16,000 people, and the Arch of Septimius Severus, which is one of the best-preserved triumphal arches from ancient Rome. The city also has a harbor that was built by the Phoenicians.
History: Leptis Magna was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BCE and was later taken over by the Carthaginians, who were defeated by the Romans in the 2nd century BCE. Under Roman rule, the city flourished and became one of the most important cities in North Africa. It declined in the 3rd century CE and was abandoned in the 7th century CE. The city was rediscovered in the 17th century and has since been recognized as one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities: Leptis Magna is a fascinating destination for families who enjoy history and archaeology. Children will enjoy exploring the well-preserved ruins and learning about life in ancient Rome. The amphitheater is a particularly popular attraction, as it offers a glimpse into the world of gladiators and ancient sports.
Fun Fact: Leptis Magna was the birthplace of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus, who is celebrated in the city with a triumphal arch and other monuments.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Leptis Magna varies depending on the season and the attractions visited. Visitors are required to purchase a ticket at the entrance, which costs around 10 Libyan dinars (approximately $2 USD) per person. Additional fees may be charged for guided tours.
How to Reach it: Leptis Magna is located in the Khoms District of Libya, about 130 kilometers east of the capital city of Tripoli. Due to the current security situation in Libya, it is recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator or hire a private driver. The site can also be reached by taxi from the nearby town of Al Khums. Visitors are advised to check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip to Libya.
Where to Stay: There are limited accommodation options near Leptis Magna, with most visitors staying in the nearby town of Al Khums. Some of the popular options in Al Khums include the Golden Beach Hotel, the Blue Shore Resort, and the Almudather Hotel. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Next Stop: Archaeological Site of Cyrene
Year of Inscription: 1982
Criteria: (i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
Overview: Leptis Magna was a prominent city in the Roman Empire, founded in the 7th century BCE by the Phoenicians. It flourished under Roman rule, becoming one of the most important cities in North Africa. Today, the site contains some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, including a large amphitheater, a basilica, and a forum.
Prominent Features: The most notable features of Leptis Magna are the well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Severan Forum, which was the heart of the city's civic life, the amphitheater, which could seat over 16,000 people, and the Arch of Septimius Severus, which is one of the best-preserved triumphal arches from ancient Rome. The city also has a harbor that was built by the Phoenicians.
History: Leptis Magna was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BCE and was later taken over by the Carthaginians, who were defeated by the Romans in the 2nd century BCE. Under Roman rule, the city flourished and became one of the most important cities in North Africa. It declined in the 3rd century CE and was abandoned in the 7th century CE. The city was rediscovered in the 17th century and has since been recognized as one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities: Leptis Magna is a fascinating destination for families who enjoy history and archaeology. Children will enjoy exploring the well-preserved ruins and learning about life in ancient Rome. The amphitheater is a particularly popular attraction, as it offers a glimpse into the world of gladiators and ancient sports.
Fun Fact: Leptis Magna was the birthplace of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus, who is celebrated in the city with a triumphal arch and other monuments.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Leptis Magna varies depending on the season and the attractions visited. Visitors are required to purchase a ticket at the entrance, which costs around 10 Libyan dinars (approximately $2 USD) per person. Additional fees may be charged for guided tours.
How to Reach it: Leptis Magna is located in the Khoms District of Libya, about 130 kilometers east of the capital city of Tripoli. Due to the current security situation in Libya, it is recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator or hire a private driver. The site can also be reached by taxi from the nearby town of Al Khums. Visitors are advised to check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip to Libya.
Where to Stay: There are limited accommodation options near Leptis Magna, with most visitors staying in the nearby town of Al Khums. Some of the popular options in Al Khums include the Golden Beach Hotel, the Blue Shore Resort, and the Almudather Hotel. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Next Stop: Archaeological Site of Cyrene