Ghat is an ancient settlement in Libya.
Understand
[edit]In historical times, Ghat was a major terminal point on the Trans-Saharan trade route. It was a stronghold for the Kel Ajjer Tuareg federation until 1913, when the city was occupied by Italy as a colony. Italy's control there was precarious for a long time, but became stronger in 1923 (when the Fascist regime started), due to the strong active presence of the brotherhood of the Senussi. To defend their positions, Italians completed a fortress, started by the Turks in the early 20th century, that dominates the city from the hill of Koukemen. This fort is now a tourist destination.
During the Second World War, Ghat was occupied by the French from 1943 until January 1, 1952, when the UN General Assembly passed a resolution stating that Libya should become independent.
Ghat was the stronghold of the Kel Ajjer Tuareg confederation; this traditional entity covers south-western Libya (to Ubari, Sebha and Ghadames) and south-eastern Algeria (Djanet and Alezi).
Get in
[edit]By plane
[edit]Get around
[edit]The town itself is small enough to move around on foot; sites outside of it are numerous and can be accessible by 4x4 vehicles.
See
[edit]Ghat is an important tourist destination due to the neighboring Tadrart Acacus and Tassili N'Ajjer mountains, with prehistoric rock paintings and engravings, and the beauty of the surrounding desert landscapes.
- 1 Fortress of Ghat. First constructed by the Turks in early 20th century. It was completed by the Italians.
- Rock-Art Sites of Tadrart Acacus. The Acacus mountains east of Ghat feature prehistoric paintings and carvings that have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Do
[edit]Ghat is a centre for very off the beaten track trekking into the desert and Tassili N'Ajjer mountains.
Buy
[edit]Traditional hand-made jewelry and accessories of silver, leather and/or beads are the best souvenirs to get, though accessories of bigger size and traditional clothing can also be a good choice.
Eat
[edit]Ghat is famous for its traditional meals:
Fitat, tammasein and ghati cuscus are the most popular.