Saraya Lake, Tripoli, Libya
The name Assaraya Alhamra means “The Red Castle” or “The Red Fort”. It was said that it was painted red after the Spanish invasions in 1510 AD, as still hinted at by its current ochrey colour. The fortified castle was built to defend the capital city and it continued to be the centre of Tripoli’s power right down to the 20th century. Recent digging along an adjacent road revealed that the fort was built on top of an ancient Roman fortified camp, but some sources state that the actual building was established by the Phoenicians, who later abandoned the city after they settled in nearby Carthage.
Behind the red castle you will see Saraya Lake.
Epic Libya Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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