Things to Do at Martyrs' Square

Martyrs' Square sits at the heart of Tripoli's old city, serving as both a central gathering place and a window into Libya's complex modern history. The square has witnessed decades of political change - you'll find it's been renamed several times over the years, reflecting the country's shifting political landscape. What strikes most visitors is how it manages to feel both historically significant and genuinely lived-in, with locals crossing through on their daily routines while tourists pause to take in the surrounding Ottoman-era architecture. The square itself is actually quite compact, but it punches above its weight in terms of atmosphere. You'll likely find it busiest in the early evening when the heat subsides and families come out for a stroll. The mix of old and new is particularly evident here - traditional buildings frame the space while modern shops and cafes occupy the ground floors, creating that layered sense of time you get in cities that have been continuously inhabited for centuries.

Martyrs' Square sits in central Tripoli's old city, reachable by most local transport options. Taxis work best. Most drivers know it as 'the square' or by older names. Stay in the old city? You can probably walk there. The square connects several main streets-you'll likely pass through while exploring the medina anyway. But check first. Given Libya's security situation, ask local contacts or your hotel about safe routes and current conditions before you go.