Libya — Capital, Flag and Country Facts

Explore Libya: capital Tripoli, population, flag, geography, languages, history and culture.

Libya is in Africa. Its capital is Tripoli.

Climate

Mediterranean along coast; extreme desert interior with very hot summers

Mostly barren, flat to undulating plains, plateaus, and depressions; Sahara covers over 90%

Libya has Africa's largest proven oil reserves.

The ancient Roman city of Leptis Magna is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world.

Libya recorded the highest temperature ever measured on Earth at 58°C (136°F) in 1922, though this record was later disputed.

630: Arab conquest brings Islam to the region

1551: Ottoman Empire takes control of Tripoli

1911: Italy conquers Libya from the Ottoman Empire

1951: Independence as the United Kingdom of Libya under King Idris

1969: Muammar Gaddafi seizes power in a military coup

2011: Civil war and NATO intervention lead to the fall and death of Gaddafi