The Old town of Ghadames (Arabic: مدينة غدامس القديمة) is the old city of the modern city of Ghadames, Libya and one of Libya's major desert cities. Called the "Jewel of the Desert" the site is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.[1]

Old town of Ghadames
UNESCO World Heritage Site
View over the rooftops of the old town of Ghadames
LocationGhadames, Libya
CriteriaCultural: 
Reference362
Inscription1986 (10th Session)
Area38.4 ha (95 acres)
Coordinates55°07′30″N 09°29′49″E / 55.12500°N 9.49694°E / 55.12500; 9.49694

Architecture

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The old city of Ghadames is a city with an oasis. It is divided into seven neighborhoods with separate public places all connected to make one big city. The architectural design was based on the Saharan environment and inhabitants reflection to the dry climate. Its interconnected structure helped locals with space usage and insulation. Specific materials were used for protection against harsh weather and to provide light and ventilation to the four floored housings.[citation needed]

 
Aerial view of the old town of Ghadames

References

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  1. ^ "Old Town of Ghadamès". UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 2022-01-30.