Libya's Treasures

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While one of the biggest problems is getting into Libya, it is definitely worthwhile if you're looking for an off-the-beaten path destination. Leptis Magna is one of the most significant cities from the Roman Empire. Cyrene is a Greek city that was founded in 631 B.C. Vast ruins sit on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean coast. Don't forget the great Sahara Desert, which covers more than 90 percent of the country.

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Up Next: National Museum

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National Museum

The Jamahiriya Museum is Libya's National Museum. It is located in downtown Tripoli, Libya. The museum contains many ancient mosaics, statues, and other artifacts from the Roman and Greek periods. Some artifacts are from World Heritage sites at Leptis Magna and Sabratha.

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Do's and Dont's

Markets in downtown Tripoli are a great place to purchase souvenirs. However, keep in mind that ATMs are scarce and often unreliable in Libya. The decor of many hotels is straight out of the 1970s. And forget about having a glass of wine with dinner -- alcohol is forbidden in Libya, even in Tripoli's high-end Corinthia Bab Africa hotel.

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Up Next: Leptis Magna

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Medusa

Leptis Magna

A Medusa's head is seen amongst archaeological fragments at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leptis Magna, Libya. The well-preserved ancient limestone city features towering columns and arches, temples, a theater and bathhouses. This is just one of five UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Libya.

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Up Next: Temple of Apollo

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Temple of Apollo

Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo was constructed in the 6th century B.C. as part of the Sanctuary of Apollo. It is located in the ancient Greek city of Cyrene (in northeastern Libya), which overlooks the Mediterranean sea. Cyrene is the oldest of 5 Greek cities in that region. Other sights to see in Cyrene include more temples, forums and theaters.

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Public Square

Here is the Roman-era entrance of the public square for the Sanctuary of Apollo in Cyrene. The Romans overtook the city in 96 B.C., but the sanctuary was constructed before the change of power, in the 2nd century B.C.

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Up Next: Temple of Zeus

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Temple of Zeus

Temple of Zeus

This must-see sight is also located in the ancient town of Cyrene (near the city of al-Bayda, in northeastern Libya). It is the Greek Temple of Zeus.

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Up Next: Greek Theater

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Greek Theater

Greek Theater

A tourist walks in the 6th century B.C. theater that used to hold 1000 spectators in the Sanctuary of Apollo at the ancient Greek city of Cyrene.

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