Sabratha: The Ancient Gem of Libya's Coast

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeمع السلامة
  [Ma'a assalama]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'ithiran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Aridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [Ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين
  [Sahatayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Aoudu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Alnajdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [Idhab ba'eedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [Itsal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [Laki dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [Aoudu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [Ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [Kam sa'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk takhfid alsu'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Alsa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [Al'ashirah walnusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [Assabah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [Al'asr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [Sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [Tisa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين الـ...؟
  [Ayna al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al'unaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [Mata yaati alhafilah alqadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [Tathkirah (ila ...)]

Sabratha was founded in the 5th century BC as a Phoenician trading post. The city was strategically located to serve as a bridge between the Mediterranean world and the African hinterland, facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The Phoenicians, known for their seafaring skills, established Sabratha as one of the key cities in their network of settlements along the North African coast.

In 46 BC, Sabratha was incorporated into the Roman Empire following the defeat of the Phoenicians. Under Roman rule, the city experienced significant urban development and became part of the Roman province of Africa Proconsularis. The Romans built grand public buildings, including a monumental forum, basilica, and an impressive theater that still stands today. The city’s infrastructure was enhanced with the construction of roads, aqueducts, and baths, reflecting the Roman commitment to urban planning and public amenities.

Following the decline of the Roman Empire, Sabratha came under Byzantine control in the 6th century AD. During this period, the city saw the construction of several Christian churches and the spread of Christianity. The Byzantine authorities fortified the city and repurposed many of the existing Roman structures for their own use. This era marked a significant shift in the religious and cultural landscape of Sabratha.

In the 7th century AD, Sabratha fell to the Arab Islamic forces. The city was gradually overshadowed by the rise of other prominent centers such as Tripoli. Over time, Sabratha's importance waned, and it eventually fell into a state of decline. However, the remnants of its grand past, including the well-preserved Roman theater and public buildings, continued to attract attention and admiration.

Sabratha remained relatively obscure until the early 20th century when archaeological excavations began to uncover its ancient splendors. Italian archaeologists initiated extensive digs, revealing the city's well-preserved Roman and Byzantine structures. These efforts shed light on Sabratha's historical significance and its role in the ancient Mediterranean world. Today, the archaeological site of Sabratha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting scholars and tourists alike.

Sabratha is not only a testament to the city's historical and architectural heritage but also a symbol of Libya's rich cultural tapestry. Efforts to preserve and protect the site are ongoing, with various international and local organizations working together to maintain its integrity. The city's ruins, with their intricate mosaics and grand structures, provide a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited this vibrant trade hub.

Sabratha is located in the northwestern part of Libya, along the Mediterranean coast. The nearest major airport is Tripoli International Airport, situated approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Sabratha. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Sabratha, which typically takes around 1.5 hours by road. Alternatively, some tour operators offer organized trips to Sabratha from Tripoli.

Once in Sabratha, you can explore the city and its surroundings by hiring a local taxi or renting a car. Public transportation options are limited, but there are minibuses (shared taxis) that can take you to nearby towns and cities. Walking is also a good option for exploring the archaeological site and the city center, as many attractions are within a short distance.

The official currency in Libya is the Libyan Dinar (LYD). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash for transactions. ATMs are available in Sabratha, but it is recommended to withdraw cash in Tripoli before heading to Sabratha to ensure you have enough funds for your stay.

While Sabratha is generally safe for tourists, it is important to remain vigilant and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in less crowded areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in tourist areas. It is always best to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

In case of emergency, dial 193 for police assistance and 191 for medical emergencies. Sabratha has a local police station and medical facilities, including a hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful of prayer times and avoid interrupting worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A smile and a polite greeting in Arabic, such as 'As-salamu alaykum,' are appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sabratha like a local, visit the bustling local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Libyan goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the ancient Roman ruins, including the well-preserved theater and the various temples and mosaics. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Mediterranean coast and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.