Geomorphosite Inventory of Apollonia and Cyrene in Northeast Libya: involvement in Geotourism Promotion

Abstract

AbstractLibya is located on the southern shore of the Mediterranean Sea in the northern part of Africa. Geomorphological landforms known as geomorphosites are those that have been seen or exploited by humans as having scientific, cultural/historical, aesthetic, or social/economic significance. Various geomorphosites transverse Libya and can be found in other parts of the world. United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) geoparks need to conduct a comprehensive inventory of such geomorphosites to protect, promote, and geoconserve these sites for future generations. Geotourism promotion in Libya offers a great opportunity for the local community to grow and prosper. Additional African and developing countries with attractive geosites and landforms that can be promoted as geotourism destinations should be included in this initiative. The present study evaluates and assesses the geomorphosites in Cyrene and Apollonia. These sites are considered to possess regional importance, whose particular archeological and world heritage sites are indexed in UNESCO World Heritage, which makes the region a unique study subject. The area is highly recommended to be a geopark. Libya’s substantial geological assets, notably geoheritage, are enhanced in this study. These resources can promote local, sustainable development through scientific research, educational initiatives, geotourism expansion, and diversification of Libya’s isolated desert areas.