Tucked away beneath the waters near the city of Susah in Eastern Libya lie the submerged remnants of the ancient Roman city of Apollonia. Though not a recent discovery, the underwater city continues to captivate historians and divers alike.

Historical Significance:

Apollonia served as the crucial port for Cyrene, one of the shining jewels in the Hellenic world which later rose in prominence during the Roman era. As the gateway to Cyrene, Apollonia was a bustling hub, vital for trade and communication.

Architectural Marvels:

Apollonia’s landscape was dotted with Roman-inspired architecture, showcasing the grandeur of the era. From sprawling villas and bathhouses to a network of roads, the city was a testament to Roman influence and craftsmanship.

Why It Sank:

The hands of time, combined with natural phenomena like tectonic activity and rising sea levels, have caused parts of Apollonia to become submerged. These underwater sections provide a hauntingly beautiful view of a city frozen in time.

A Living Museum:

For those keen on exploring, the sunken parts of Apollonia offer a unique dive into history. With ancient remnants of structures lying beneath the sea, it’s a diver’s dream and a historian’s treasure.

Reflecting on Change:

Beyond its historical allure, Apollonia serves as a poignant reminder of the earth’s ever-changing geographical and environmental landscape.

Dive into history with captivating images of the Old Mosque situated in Ojala the town of Oasis, southern Libya. Boasting a legacy of over 1,400 years, this architectural marvel stands as one of North Africa’s most ancient mosques. The venerable Abdullah bin Al-Sarh, a prominent companion of the Prophet, constructed it in 35 AH.

Notably, the mosque features 20 ingeniously designed domes. These domes not only offer ventilation and cooling in the desert climate but also bathe the interior in a gentle, diffused light, creating a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection.

Shahhat is a city in eastern Libya, located in the Jebel Akhdar mountains. It’s most famously known for being the site of the ancient Greek city of Cyrene, which is one of the principal cities in the Hellenic world. Here’s what you should know about Shahhat:

1. Historical Significance: Shahhat is synonymous with Cyrene because of its proximity to the ancient ruins. The modern town essentially serves as the gateway to this ancient city.

2. Archaeological Richness: The ancient ruins of Cyrene, located near Shahhat, are one of the most significant archaeological sites in North Africa. This includes the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Apollo, and the ancient city’s agora or marketplace.

3. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Cyrene’s ruins, in the vicinity of Shahhat, have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982 because of their historical and archaeological significance.

4. Economy: While tourism, driven mainly by the nearby ruins, plays a significant role in the local economy, Shahhat and its surrounding region are also involved in agricultural activities due to the fertile land in the Jebel Akhdar region.

5. Education and Infrastructure: Shahhat hosts institutions that aid in preserving the ancient city, including a local museum that showcases artifacts from Cyrene. The city is equipped with basic infrastructure, including schools, healthcare facilities, and local markets.

6. Modern Challenges: Like many archaeological sites globally, the ruins near Shahhat have faced challenges, including looting and damage, especially during times of political unrest in Libya. There’s been international concern about preserving the site and ensuring it remains a testament to its rich history.

In essence, while Shahhat is a relatively small city in modern Libya, its proximity to the ancient city of Cyrene makes it a place of significant historical and archaeological interest.