Libya is a country located in North Africa, bordered by Egypt, Algeria, and Tunisia, and facing the Mediterranean Sea. Its capital is Tripoli, and it is known for its ancient Roman ruins and vast deserts as major tourist attractions.
Libya’s climate includes rainy winters, where you can comfortably wear short sleeves during the day, but you’ll need thick long sleeves at night due to significant temperature drops—so be cautious. The best season to travel varies between the north and south, but generally, April to September is ideal. After exploring the Roman ruins and vast desert, why not go hunting for unique Libyan souvenirs?
1. Libyan Desert Glass
Libyan Desert Glass is a type of natural glass found scattered across the vast Libyan desert, covering many kilometers. Various items such as pendants and necklaces are made from this glass.
Libyan glass gained fame when a scarab made from it was discovered in the tomb of Tutankhamun. It has since been considered a mystical power stone, believed to promote reincarnation and a happy life, and is even used in feng shui.
If you're visiting Libya, definitely consider buying this as a souvenir. It's more affordable than in other countries and is a beautiful item to keep as a personal talisman.
2. Spices
When you think of Libya, spices undoubtedly come to mind. In the capital city of Tripoli, numerous markets line the streets. The majority of stalls sell spices—most of which are similar across vendors—but when choosing, be sure to select those without impurities.
Spices are sold by weight, so it’s also enjoyable to ask shopkeepers which ones are best suited for the dishes you plan to make.
3. Honey
Honey is known as one of Libya’s specialties. While it can be expensive in other countries, some stores in Libya sell it at very affordable prices. Honey has long been said to have anti-aging and diuretic effects, making it a well-received souvenir from Libya. Prices vary, and the more expensive types are sold as luxury items, but even those are cheaper than what you’d find in other countries.
Libyan honey comes in both dark and light shades, and its mild flavor pairs well with bread and yogurt. Because it has little to no strong aftertaste, it’s also great for cooking. Along the roads from the capital Tripoli to cities like Khoms and Leptis Magna, you’ll often find honey sold at roadside stalls. These can be even cheaper than what’s offered at souvenir shops, and you can negotiate the price. It’s the kind of souvenir you’ll want to buy in bulk to bring home.
4. Libyan Pottery
As you travel the roads of Libya, you’ll notice roadside vendors selling pottery. The selection varies by stall, with everything from brightly colored pieces to more subdued, earthy-toned ones. Plates come in various sizes—large and small—so you can choose pottery that suits the type of food you plan to serve. With such an abundance of choices, you may find it hard to decide!
In addition to plates, there are plenty of other pottery items like flowerpots and wall hangings, making them great options for home decor. Don’t miss out on these beautiful, Libyan-made pottery pieces—the colors are truly charming.
◎ Summary
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When traveling to Libya, known as a treasure trove of ancient ruins, local specialty items that can only be found here make for ideal souvenirs. While Libyan products tend to be expensive when sold in other countries, you can purchase them much more cheaply in Libya itself. In fact, roadside stalls often offer lower prices than souvenir shops—and allow you to negotiate—so why not give it a try?