Old Town of Ghadames

Old Town of Ghadames

The ancient town of Ghadames is located to the west of the Houn region in Libya, Africa. Built on a desert oasis, the town has long been known as the "Pearl of the Desert" and is one of the oldest cities on the northern edge of the Sahara. It was successively conquered by the Roman Empire and the Berbers, which gave its traditional architecture distinctive characteristics. The old city of Ghadames and its surrounding oasis cover a total area of 225 hectares, of which 10 hectares are made up of earthen houses, mostly built in areas with abundant springs.

The Old Town of Ghadames is one of the oldest cities in the Sahara and an outstanding example of traditional vernacular architecture, as well as a model of traditional communal settlements. Its architectural features include different functions assigned to each level of the building. A typical residence has at least two stories: the upper floors are living spaces, storage rooms are located on the ground floor, and the basements below feature maze-like, winding corridors. The ground level is used for storing supplies, while another elevated layer above the dark, enclosed passageways forms a network of interconnected walkways. Outdoor platforms are specially designed for women. The houses in Ghadames use very basic building materials such as mud-brick walls, wooden structures, and palm wood doors and windows, yet they create a uniquely distinctive architectural style.

Old Town of Ghadames

Must-visit reason: One of the oldest cities in the Sahara

Continent where the attraction is located: Africa【Africa】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Libya

Province/State where the attraction is located: Nalut District

City where the attraction is located: Ghadames