[QODLink]
Africa
Libya's ancient Leptis Magna now a ghost town
Revolution and increasing attacks by armed groups deter tourists, halting valuable funds for excavations.
Last Modified: 10 Feb 2012 08:00

North Africa's most well-preserved Roman ruin used to be a bustling tourist attraction, but since the revolution Libya's Leptis Magna is now a ghost town.

Prior to the revolution that ousted Muammar Gaddafi, the seaport, which historically served as a gateway to Africa from Rome, was bustling with foreign and local tourists.

But now, with increasing attacks by armed groups and a general feelings of instability, the tourist dollars are drying up.

Without such revenue, the 2,100 year old city, and the secrets within it, are at risk of being lost due to lack of funds for renovations and new excavations.

Al Jazeera's Imran Khan reports from Leptis Magna.

Source:
Al Jazeera
Topics in this article
People
Country
Featured on Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera's exclusive publishing of a key Guantanamo prison military document lays bare the brutality of force-feeding.
Former military official says poverty and anger in indigenous communities mean conditions for an "insurgency" are ripe.
A four-part series that gives a rare insight into the country on the move, with history in tow.
Series on the Palestinian 'catastrophe' of 1948 that led to dispossession and conflict that still endures.
Featured
A four-part series that gives a rare insight into the country on the move, with history in tow.
Series on the Palestinian 'catastrophe' of 1948 that led to dispossession and conflict that still endures.
Two years since the start of the uprising, rebels and Assad's forces remain locked in conflict.
China aims to expand its influence in the resource rich area.
Extensive coverage of war crimes tribunals and controversial calls for blasphemy laws.
join our mailing list