Gharyan's unique underground houses were hewn into the mountainside centuries ago, and many lie abandoned, but residents of the Libyan town are hoping tourism can help restore their heritage. The region's bedrock has a consistency that allowed the underground dwelling -- known as a damous -- to last for centuries without collapsing. Some of the buildings are over 2,300 years old, and ancient Greek historians mentioned their existence, according to historian Youssef al-Khattali. "The same tribes extend from Nalut to Gabes," said historian Khattali, referring to towns on the Libyan and Tunisian sides. The buildings "were designed to be versatile, and they've stood the test of time," Khattali said.

Source: Libya Today April 17, 2022 01:43 UTC