5 days ago
Britain lends a hand to preserve Libya's desert jewel
BY Libyan Express Aug 10, 2025 - 21:50 Updated: Aug 11, 2025 - 05:53 Visit marks Britain's continued engagement in Libya, with a focus on cultural preservation and local partnerships
Ghadames Municipality announced on Sunday the arrival of a delegation from the British Embassy in Libya, led by Deputy Ambassador Thomas Phipps.
The delegation was welcomed at the municipal headquarters by the mayor and members of the municipal council, together with elders and community leaders — a traditional reception that reflects the city's deep-rooted customs of hospitality.
According to the municipality's statement, the visit is part of the United Kingdom's ongoing efforts to engage with Libya's diverse cultural heritage and strengthen partnerships across the country. The British Embassy had earlier noted that Ghadames, with its distinctive architecture and desert history, holds a special place in Libya's identity.
The UK currently supports several initiatives in the city, most notably the preservation of the Old City of Ghadames — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — through the British Council's Cultural Protection Fund. This work aims to safeguard the city's unique mud-brick architecture and intricate alleyways for future generations.
The British Council has also backed projects to assist vulnerable members of the community, including people with disabilities and older residents, improving access and safety in public spaces such as schools and hospitals.
For both Libyans and long-time residents of the country, the visit is a reminder that Ghadames is more than a remote Saharan outpost — it is a living symbol of Libya's history, resilience and cultural richness, attracting attention and support from far beyond its desert walls. The views expressed in Op-Ed pieces are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Libyan Express.
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