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Al-Naga Mosque

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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The Al-Naga Mosque is widely recognized as the oldest mosque in Tripoli, representing a vital link to the early Islamic history of North Africa. Its foundations are believed to date back to the 10th century during the Fatimid period, though the current structure was extensively rebuilt in 1610 by Safar Dey. The architectural style is notably austere, featuring a low, flat roof supported by numerous ancient columns salvaged from nearby Roman ruins. This use of recycled classical elements gives the prayer hall a unique historical atmosphere, bridging the gap between antiquity and the Islamic era. The mosque's name, which translates to 'The She-Camel,' is tied to a local legend about a camel that supposedly chose the building's site. Throughout centuries of foreign occupation and urban change, the mosque has remained a cornerstone of religious life in the Tripoli Medina. Its survival through various conflicts underscores its significance as a symbol of cultural endurance. Today, it continues to serve as an active place of worship and a key historical landmark for the city.

Location: Libya
Top sights: Meydan Assa'a · Ditch Road · The Red Castle
Nearby: Tajoura (15 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	16	18	21	24	27	28	27	24	20	16
Rain mm	44	38	20	8	5	2	0	1	21	29	35	51

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Al-Naga Mosque is an active mosque, usually open for visits outside prayer times. Visitors should dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.

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Typical hours

The mosque generally opens for the five daily prayers, and is accessible for visitors between prayers. On Fridays, the noon prayer is especially important, with limited visiting during that time.

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Photography

Photography is usually allowed in the mosque, but without flash and without capturing people praying. It is polite to ask permission before taking photos.

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Time needed

A visit to the mosque itself takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on interest in the architecture. If you also want to explore the surroundings and old town, allow one hour.

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Combine with

The mosque is located in the historic center of Tripoli, making it easy to combine with the old town (Medina), the Jamahiriya Museum, and the Marcus Aurelius Arch. The nearby souk is also worth visiting.

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Getting there

The mosque is located in central Tripoli, within walking distance from Green Square and the port. Taxis are a common option to reach the old town.

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Insider tip

Visit the mosque late morning or early afternoon when it is quieter. Listen to the call to prayer, which creates a special atmosphere - but during prayer times remain respectfully in the background.

Geography

Coordinates

32.89500, 13.17800

Facts

It is considered the oldest mosque in Tripoli
The current building was reconstructed in 1610
Ancient Roman columns support the interior roof
The name 'Al-Naga' means 'The She-Camel'
Its original foundation dates back to the 10th century
The mosque survived the Spanish occupation of 1510

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Al-Majidiya Mosque<1 km · NEExplore →

Tripoli Zoo2 km · SExplore →

Tripoli Stadium6 km · SWExplore →

Kenana Sugar Factory12 km · NExplore →

Assalaya Sugar Factory15 km · SExplore →

Tajoura15 km · EExplore →

Janzur16 km · SWExplore →

Rabak17 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Al-Naga Mosque (10)

Meydan Assa'a

Central square in Tripoli, a meeting point and venue for public events.

Ditch Road

Road along the former moat, connecting the old city with the harbor district.

The Red Castle🏰 castle

Landmark in Libya, the historic fortress on the edge of Tripoli's old town.

The Harem of Ali Garamanli

Former living quarters of ruler Ali Garamanli inside the Tripoli fortress.

Red Castle Museum 🏛 museum

Libya's national museum in Tripoli, displaying archaeological finds and traditional art.

Old City

Historic district of Tripoli with narrow alleys and traditional architecture.

Santa Maria degli Angeli Church

Church in Tripoli, Libya, a Catholic place of worship.

Gurgi Mosque

Mosque in Tripoli, an Islamic prayer site.

Statue Belle And Spinner

Ancient statue in Tripoli, possibly from Roman or Greek times.

Tripoli International Fair

Exhibition center in Tripoli, venue for fairs and cultural events.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Al-Naga Mosque considered the oldest in Tripoli?

Yes, it is considered the oldest mosque in the city, originally built in the 10th century.

Why is it called 'Al-Naga'?

'Al-Naga' means 'she-camel' and refers to a legend about a camel donated for the construction.

Was the mosque ever destroyed?

It was destroyed by the Spanish in 1510 and rebuilt in its current form in 1611.

What characterizes its building style?

It has a rather simple, traditional style with a flat roof and many columns inside.

Where can the mosque be found?

It is located hidden in the narrow alleys of the Tripoli Medina.

Al-Naga Mosque: where is it located?

Al-Naga Mosque is located in Libya.

Al-Naga Mosque: what is there to see?

Highlights include Meydan Assa'a, Ditch Road, The Red Castle.

Al-Naga Mosque: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Nov.

Al-Naga Mosque: why is it worth visiting?

The Al-Naga Mosque is widely recognized as the oldest mosque in Tripoli, representing a vital link to the early Islamic history of North Africa.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Al-Naga Mosque

Best time to visit & climate