Military Fortifications in the Libyan City of Ghat during the (1551-1911) Ottoman Period (An Archaeological, Historical, and Architectural Study)

Abstract

The study examines military fortifications in Libya during the Ottoman period (1551–1911), focusing on the southern region, particularly the city of Ghat, due to its historical and geographical significance. Southern Libya served as a strategic link between North Africa and Sudan, functioning as a vital corridor for trade caravans. This necessitated the establishment of defensive structures to protect trade routes and secure Ottoman influence. The main issue addressed by the study is the scarcity of specialized research on Ottoman military architecture in southern Libya, particularly concerning its architectural characteristics and defensive functions. The study aims to document these structures, analyze their planning and architectural elements, and highlight their military and strategic roles. The importance of this research lies in its contribution to preserving Libya's Islamic architectural heritage and enriching historical and architectural studies. Geographically, the study is limited to southern Libya, while temporally it focuses on the Ottoman era, employing both historical and descriptive-analytical methodologies. The findings reveal that Ottoman military architecture in southern Libya was characterized by its adaptation to the desert environment and played a pivotal role in ensuring security stability. This study helps bridge a knowledge gap and provides a scientific reference for researchers and those interested in military architecture during the Ottoman period in Libya