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Location:
Northern Libya.
Dialing code:
218 (0) 21
Time zone:
GMT + 2.
Electricity:
220/240V, 50Hz; continental two-pin plugs are standard.
Average January temperatures:
17ºC (62.6ºF).
Average July temperatures:
32ºC (89.6ºF).
Annual rainfall:
300-400mm (12-16 inches
The Tripoli metropolitan area (district area) has a population of 1,065,405 (2006 census). The city is located in the northwest of the country on the edge of the desert, on a point of rocky land projecting into the Mediterranean Sea and forming a bay. Tripoli was founded in the 7th century BC by the Phoenicians, who named it Oea
Tripoli, the capital of the North African country of Libya, is a charming, if sometimes overlooked Mediterranean port that is perfect for a quiet, relaxing holiday. Tripoli seem like a world apart from Tunis and other North-African destinations, as it lacks the bustle and the Arabian Nights atmosphere that permeates them. Tripoli has belonged to Spain, France and Italy, and despite that fact that it has also been an operation base for Turkish pirates for quite a while, the city preserved an old-world feel due to its mostly colonial architecture. Tripoli’s old town is a mix of European elements and bits and pieces of Islamic architecture. Tripoli is within driving distance to some of North-Africa’s most beautiful beaches, but sunbathing and sightseeing is about all you can do in Tripoli. Don’t expect to find any nightlife in the city, as alcohol is strictly forbidden and music frowned upon.
Tripoli is the largest city, the principal sea port, and the largest commercial and manufacturing centre in Libya. It is also the site of Al-Fateh University. Due to the city's long history, there are many sites of archaeological significance in Tripoli. The climate is typical Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers, cool winters and some modest rainfall.
Travel east or west, to nearby Liptismagna or Sabratah, and soak up all the history. Shopping is a great pleasure, especially in the popular markets where you can buy a great variety of Libyan handicrafts such as traditional clothes, carpets, handmade gold and silver jewelry, copper and silver dishes, leather goods, and potter.
Special Events:
Tripoli is the place for big political rallies, but if cultural performances are rare, then cultural festivals are non-existent. Musicians and dancers perform at wedding parties, which together with religious holidays like Ramadan, are the main celebrations. In recent years more festivals have been held in the south of the country to celebrate the character and cultural heritage of a particular town and its people. Travel agents in Tripoli can provide information on the exact date of the festival, as well as organize the trip and accommodation there.
Ramadan:
Sep-Oct, Muslims abstain from food, drink and sex between sunrise and sunset; evenings are spent eating together, shopping and going to the medina.
Eid al-Fitr:
usually Oct, everything is closed for a three-day holiday to celebrate the end of fasting in Ramadan.
Eid al-Adha:
Nov-Dec, families get together and slaughter a sheep to commemorate Abraham’s sacrifice and mark the time of the pilgrimage to Mecca
Revolution Day:
1 Sep, public holiday with a big rally, speech by Colonel Gaddafi and military parades, Green Square and along the seafront.
