Derna is a coastal city in eastern Libya. It is known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and rich cultural heritage. From the ancient Greek city of Cyrene to the Ottoman fortifications, Derna has much to offer travelers. Here are the top 20 places to see in Derna, Libya.
1. Fort of Derna: The Fort of Derna is a large Ottoman fortification located in the center of the city. It was built in the late 16th century and is one of the best-preserved fortifications in the region. The fort is open to visitors and offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
2. Greek Theater: The Greek Theater in Derna is one of the oldest theaters in the world. It was built by the ancient Greeks in the 4th century BC and is still used for performances today.
3. Cyrene: Cyrene was an ancient Greek city located in the hills overlooking Derna. It was founded in the 7th century BC and is home to some of the best-preserved ruins in the region.
4. Roman Baths: The Roman Baths are located in the center of Derna. They were built in the 2nd century AD and are some of the best-preserved Roman baths in the world.
5. Great Mosque of Derna: The Great Mosque of Derna is one of the oldest mosques in the city. It was built in the 9th century and is still used for religious services today.
6. Ottoman Citadel: The Ottoman Citadel is located in the center of Derna. It was built in the 16th century and is one of the best-preserved Ottoman citadels in the region.
7. Al-Haddad Mosque: The Al-Haddad Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Derna. It was built in the 11th century and is still used for religious services today.
8. Al-Mansuriya Mosque: The Al-Mansuriya Mosque is one of the most important mosques in Derna. It was built in the 12th century and is still used for religious services today.
9. Al-Qasr Mosque: The Al-Qasr Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Derna. It was built in the 13th century and is still used for religious services today.
10. Al-Rashid Mosque: The Al-Rashid Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Derna. It was built in the 14th century and is still used for religious services today.
11. Al-Sadiq Mosque: The Al-Sadiq Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Derna. It was built in the 15th century and is still used for religious services today.
12. Al-Saraya Castle: The Al-Saraya Castle is a large fortification located in the center of Derna. It was built in the 16th century and is one of the best-preserved Ottoman fortifications in the region.
13. Al-Sha'ab Castle: The Al-Sha'ab Castle is a large fortification located in the center of Derna. It was built in the 17th century and is one of the best-preserved Ottoman fortifications in the region.
14. Al-Tahir Mosque: The Al-Tahir Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Derna. It was built in the 18th century and is still used for religious services today.
15. Al-Tawba Mosque: The Al-Tawba Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Derna. It was built in the 19th century and is still used for religious services today.
16. Al-Wahda Mosque: The Al-Wahda Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Derna. It was built in the 20th century and is still used for religious services today.
17. Derna Museum: The Derna Museum is located in the center of the city. It has a large collection of artifacts from the city's history, including ancient Greek and Roman ruins.
18. Greek Necropolis: The Greek Necropolis is located in the hills overlooking Derna. It is home to some of the best-preserved ancient Greek tombs in the region.
19. Ottoman Palace: The Ottoman Palace is located in the center of Derna. It was built in the 19th century and is one of the best-preserved Ottoman palaces in the region.
20. Ottoman Tombs: The Ottoman Tombs are located in the hills overlooking Derna. They are some of the best-preserved tombs in the region and offer a glimpse into the city's Ottoman past.
Derna is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. From ancient ruins to Ottoman fortifications, there is much to see and explore in this city. Whether you are looking for a beach holiday or an adventure exploring the city's past, Derna is the perfect destination.