The history of Libya Derna is complex and turbulent, filled with periods of conquest and occupation, war and peace, and a struggle for independence. Located in the eastern part of Libya, Derna is a coastal city that has been the site of numerous battles throughout the centuries. From the Ottoman Empire to Italian occupation, and most recently, the civil war, Derna has had a tumultuous past. This article will explore the history of Derna, from its earliest days to the present day.
The earliest known inhabitants of Derna were the Berber people, who settled in the area around 2000 BC. The city was then conquered by the Phoenicians and later the Greeks. In the 4th century BC, the city was conquered by Alexander the Great and became part of the Ptolemaic Kingdom. In the 1st century BC, the city was conquered by the Romans, who named it Darnis.
In the 11th century, the city was conquered by the Normans and then by the Arabs in the 12th century. During this time, the city was known as Derna. In 1510, the city was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and remained under Ottoman rule until 1911. During this time, the city experienced significant growth and development, becoming an important trading center in the region.
In 1911, the city was occupied by the Italians, who renamed it Derna and made it the capital of the Italian colony of Libya. During this time, the city experienced a period of modernization and development. In 1934, the city was the site of a major battle between Italian forces and Libyan rebels, which ended in a decisive victory for the Italians.
In the aftermath of World War II, the city was occupied by the British, who made it part of the Kingdom of Libya. In 1951, the city was declared the capital of the newly independent Libya. However, in 1969, the city was taken over by Muammar Gaddafi, who declared it the capital of the Libyan Arab Republic. In 2011, the city was the site of a major battle between rebels and government forces, which ended in a decisive victory for the rebels.
Since 2011, the city has been the site of numerous battles and skirmishes between various factions. In 2014, the city was taken over by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). In 2015, the city was liberated by the Libyan National Army. Today, the city is still the site of fighting between various factions, though it is slowly beginning to rebuild and recover.
Despite its turbulent past, Derna is still a vibrant city with a rich culture and history. It is home to some of Libya’s most important archaeological sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Cyrene. It is also home to a number of museums, libraries, and cultural centers, which are dedicated to preserving the city’s history and culture.