 Overview: *Libya is currently in the aftermath of a civil war that toppled
the Gaddafi regime. While fighting in most of the country has
ended, safety in Libya is far from certain and all but essential
travel to Libya at this time is not advised. Oil-rich Libya has had a tumultuous history and many have
wrestled for control of this fascinating and beautiful land. Tucked
between Egypt and Tunisia, and bordering on the Mediterranean Sea,
Libya has seen invasions by Turks, Vandals, Byzantines, Romans,
Arabs and Italians; only gaining independence in 1951. These
various civilisations have left their mark, particularly evident in
the striking Roman and Greek ruins at Leptis Magna, Cyrene and
Sabratha, though Libya remains quintessentially Arabic - evident in
the Medina (old city) of the capital Tripoli, the nomadic lifestyle
of desert-dwelling Bedouin and Berber tribes, and the language,
culture and customs of the people. Tripoli, in the northeast, is the country's main port, and is a
bustling city dominated by the splendid Assaraya al-Hamra (Red
Castle), a large palace complex, as well as the walls and gates of
the Medina. Filled with orange groves, grapevines, palms and olive
trees, the lush city is home to several interesting mosques,
museums and historical sites, as well as modern amenities. Its
ideal location on the Mediterranean makes it a popular attraction
for locals and tourists alike. Benghazi is Libya's second largest
city and is chiefly more modern in flavour, having been all but
destroyed during World War II, though one can still enjoy the
lively local souqs (markets), and it acts as a good base from which
to explore the neighbouring Green Mountain area, as well as several
Roman ruin sites along the coast. Libya is largely an undiscovered tourist destination, due to
sanctions imposed on the country through its rocky political
history, including participation in several acts of terrorism
(including the 1988 bombing of a PanAm flight near Lockerbie in
Scotland) and the support by 'Guide of the Re
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