Tripoli, Lebanon: hidden facts
Tripoli holds the largest concentration of Mamluk-era architecture outside Cairo, its Arabic name is Trablus, and its name comes from the Greek “Tripolis,” meaning “three cities.” It also features a modernist fairground designed by Oscar Niemeyer, alongside its medieval old town.
What surprises first-time visitors?
Beyond the medieval old city, Tripoli has the Rachid Karami International Fair — an unfinished modernist complex designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer in the 1960s.
The contrast of Mamluk khans and sweeping modernist concrete is one of the city’s most unexpected pairings.
What history is hidden in the souks?
The old city’s khans were once caravanserais for traders; names like Khan al-Saboun (soap) and Khan al-Khayyatin (tailors) still mark their original trades.
Tripoli’s soap-making tradition dates back centuries and remains a signature local craft.
Frequently asked questions
How old is Tripoli?
Tripoli has been inhabited for over 3,000 years, with roots in Phoenician times. Its present old city is largely Mamluk, rebuilt inland around the citadel from the late 13th century onward.
Why is Tripoli called the “three cities”?
The name comes from the Greek “Tripolis,” meaning “three cities,” a reference to an ancient federation of Phoenician settlements. In Arabic the city is called Trablus.