Cyrene UNESCO site reopens visitor paths as Libya pitches cultural tourism

Authorities reopened marked visitor paths at the ancient city of Cyrene near Shahhat, pairing restored walkways with Arabic–English signage and capped daily entry to protect mosaics from overcrowding. Tour guides from Benghazi reported early bookings from Tunisian and Egyptian groups interested in long-weekend itineraries.

Archaeologists displayed photogrammetry scans used to prioritise stabilisation work on the Temple of Apollo precinct. Local vendors called for regulated souk zones so informal sellers do not encroach on excavation buffers.

Culture ministry officials framed Cyrene as a pilot for a broader Libyan heritage trail linking Leptis Magna and Ghadames when security permits. WOP360 culture desk will follow UNESCO monitoring missions due later this year.