The old town of Ghadames (inscribed in 1986 as a UNESCO World Heritage site)
The old town of Ghadames (inscribed in 1986 as a UNESCO World Heritage site)
Ghadames, known as 'the pearl of the desert' (Jawhart Al-Sahra) by Arab sources, stands in an oasis, on the edge of the Sahara next to a spring of water called ‘Spring of Filly’. It is one of the oldest pre-Saharan cities and an outstanding example of a traditional settlement. It has played a key role in the cultural and economic life of the region as an important and peaceful hub for caravan trade as part of the trans-Saharan network.
Located in north-western Libya near the borders with Algeria and Tunisia. It has a hot desert climate with long, extremely hot summers as average high temperature is around 45 °C in July.
The indigenous language of Ghadames is Ghadamès, a Berber language. It also has traditional dresses, accessories and folk music, in addition to other handicrafts industries made from leather and Palm derivatives are used for wearing and decoration.
The old twon of Ghadames distinguishes by its architecture which is described as “Defensive Architecture”, which formed as a big compact fortress to integrate with the harsh climate.
10 April 2022
15 October 2022