Libya II: Libyan Heritage in Flavor, Motion, Sound and Color
- ayshaaldaeki
- Aug 14
- 22 min read
Updated: Aug 17
I’ve been trying to write this post (and the one after it) in this series for almost a year now. Anyone who knows me knows how patriotic I am. So while working on this, I kept getting sidetracked—dancing, watching hour-long videos, and falling down rabbit holes of niche research—probably spending more time on that than actually writing.
The main goal of this series is to document different aspects of Libya—its history, culture, society, and more—so they’re out there for people to learn about. Earlier this year, I wrote one about Gaddafi and the Libyan revolution for its anniversary. I had originally planned for the next part (this one) to cover Libya’s history, but then I found a website that does a far better job than I ever could at documenting it. So, instead, I decided to dive into something more exciting: Libya’s culture—its food, art, and clothing.
I had so much fun researching and writing this, and I hope you enjoy reading it just as much.
Background Information
Before diving into Libya’s culture, let’s start with some background.
The name Libya—of Egyptian origin and derived from the Berber tribes known as the Lebu—was used in antiquity to refer to all of North Africa west of Egypt. As ancient Greek and Roman knowledge of the world expanded, the term sometimes came to describe the entire North African coast, and in some cases, even the whole continent of Africa.
Today, Libya is a country in North Africa bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Egypt to the east, Sudan to the southeast, Niger and Chad to the south, and Tunisia and Algeria to the west. It is made up of three historical regions: Tripolitania in the northwest, Cyrenaica in the east, and Fezzan in the southwest. Libyan culture is a rich blend shaped by ancient civilizations, Islam, and periods of colonization—most notably by the Ottomans and Italians.
People of Libya
After Libya fell to the Fatimids in 920 AD, the Berber Zirid dynasty broke away from their Shiite rulers. In response, the Fatimids brought in the Bani Hilal and Banu Salim tribes from Arabia to reinforce their position. These two tribes began the Arabisation of North Africa. However, modern genetic studies show that over 90% of Arabs in Libya (and North Africa generally) are Arabised Berbers—Berbers who adopted the Arabic language. For instance, many inhabitants of Benghazi, Misrata, and Zintan are of Berber descent despite speaking Arabic.
While Arabs form the majority, Libya still has a significant Amazigh (Berber) population. Other ethnic groups include the Toubou, Tuareg, and a Roma community known as the Dom. The Toubou, originally from the Tibesti Plateau in Chad, live along the Libya–Chad border. The Tuareg are nomadic, linked to Tuareg communities across Niger and Algeria. Both primarily reside in the south.
The vast majority of Libyans are Sunni Muslims, with Islam playing a central role in cultural life. Libya was once home to a large and thriving Jewish community, but due to anti-Jewish pogroms and migration to Israel, no Jews remain in the country today. Nevertheless, their cultural influence still lingers.
As for Libyan character, there are many traits—boldness, friendliness, respect—but I believe two stand above the rest: stubbornness and generosity. If a Libyan lacks these, I immediately question their roots. Our stubbornness runs deep; Libyans will hold to their principles, even at the cost of their lives. Omar al-Mukhtar, our most famous resistance leader, used the two-finger sign not for peace, but to represent two outcomes: victory or death. He fought the Italians with that exact mindset, which, I think, is why Libyans have historically resisted change. Generosity is equally defining—Libyans will give from their own to help others or host a guest. Throughout our cultural history, these two traits have shaped the way we live, interact, and preserve our traditions.
To frame the rest of this post, I will explore Libya’s cultural features through three lenses:
Racial groups – Arabs, Amazigh, Tuareg, and Toubou
Regions – Tripolitania (west), Cyrenaica (east), Fezzan (south)
Religion – Islam and Judaism
Food: A Taste of Libya
If you ever visit Libya, prepare to be fed like you haven’t eaten in days—whether you’re hungry or not. Food here isn’t just about eating; it’s about hospitality, pride, and showing love (sometimes aggressively… you can’t say no to a Libyan aunt with a ladle in her hand). Our recipes carry centuries of history, passed down through families, blending Amazigh, Arab, Ottoman, Italian, and even Jewish influences into flavors you can’t find anywhere else.
From hearty stews to delicate pastries, every dish tells a story—of trade routes and nomadic journeys, of celebrations and Friday lunches, of patient hands kneading dough and spicing lamb just right. Some of these dishes are everyday comfort food, others appear only for weddings, Eid, or special guests. And yes, we do have a dessert section because Libyan sweets deserve their own spotlight.
Main Dishes
Bazin (البازين)
Bazin, considered the country's national dish, is a firm, unleavened bread made from barley flour, water, and salt, beaten with a wooden magraf until smooth. It’s served with a tomato-based lamb stew, potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and chili peppers, and eaten communally with the right hand.
Region: Most popular in western Libya, especially in winter and at weddings.
Fun Fact: The name comes from the Amazigh words Abzin or Tabzint, and the dish dates back to the Zirid and Hafsid dynasties.
Makaruna Mbekbka (المكرونة مبكبكة)
Pasta cooked directly in a spiced sauce rather than plain water, so it absorbs every bit of flavor. Traditionally includes lamb, chickpeas, pumpkin, potatoes, raisins, and spices like ginger, cloves, and shaiba leaves, with a hint of orange blossom water and cinnamon.
Region: Originates from eastern Libya but now enjoyed nationwide in simpler forms.
Fun Fact: Mbekbka comes from the Libyan Arabic verb bekbek, meaning “to bubble,” describing the sound the sauce makes while cooking.
Chraime (حرايمي)
A spicy North African fish stew made with tomatoes, chili, and aromatic spices. Bold, rich, and perfect for soaking up with bread.
Region: Originates from Libya’s Jewish community, especially in coastal areas, and is also found in other Maghrebi cuisines.
Fun Fact: The name comes from the Arabic word for “hot,” but in the Libyan Jewish context it could also mean “forbidden” or “special.” Traditionally eaten by Jews on Erev Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah, and Passover. A playful saying went: “حرايمي، حاشا عيونك”—meaning “it’s so special, it should stay away from your eyes.”
Asida with Rubb (العصيدة بالرُّب)
A sweet, celebratory dish made by cooking wheat or barley flour with water and a pinch of salt, stirred until smooth and firm. Shaped into a mound with a hollow center, it’s filled with date syrup (rubb) and surrounded by ghee or butter.
Region: Found across Libya.
Fun Fact: Traditionally prepared during Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet’s birthday) and one week after a child’s birth, making it both festive and symbolic.
Side Dishes – The Delicious Company to the Main Event
Some say the main dish is the star, but in Libya, side dishes can steal the show. These recipes are packed with flavor, tradition, and that “just one more bite” magic.
Usban (العصبان)
Sheep intestines stuffed with a fragrant mixture of rice, meat, liver, herbs, spices, and tomato paste. Simmered in broth until tender, and often served alongside rice cooked in the same broth.
Region: Enjoyed across Libya, with seasoning variations between regions.
Fun Fact: Often prepared for weddings, the birth of a child, and Eid al-Adha—symbolizing generosity and festivity.
Mb’atten (المبطّن)
Potatoes sliced lengthwise into a “sandwich,” stuffed with minced meat, fresh herbs, and spices. Dipped in egg and flour, fried until golden, and sometimes simmered in tomato sauce.
Serving Tip: Best eaten warm with couscous or salad, often alongside kofta.
Boureek (البوريك)
A crispy fried pastry—often folded into a triangle—filled with a raw egg, then fried until golden. Variations include minced meat, herbs, or vegetables.
Region: Enjoyed across Libya, especially as a festive snack.
Fun Fact: While Libya favors the triangular, egg-filled version, Algeria shapes it more like a spring roll—proof that one recipe can wear many “outfits” in the Maghreb.
Lebrak (البراك أو الضولمة الليبية)
Swiss chard leaves (esselk) stuffed with rice, tomato paste, herbs, garlic, and meat. Rolled tightly, weighted down, and simmered gently until tender.
Sfenz (سفنز)
Light, fluffy fritters—sometimes drizzled with honey or stuffed with an egg while frying. Perfect for breakfast, dinner, or a cozy winter snack.
Desserts – Sweet Traditions of Libya
Tripoli-Style Baklawa (بكلاوة طرابلسية)
A layered pastry made with paper-thin jebda dough, filled with almonds or walnuts, and sweetened with honey or syrup. The layers—often 18 to 22—are carefully assembled so the top stays flawless for a beautiful finish.
Region: Tripoli, especially at celebrations and family gatherings.
‘Abamber (عْبَمْبِر)
A crisp almond biscuit made from almonds, sugar, and egg whites, perfect alongside tea or coffee.
Mthrouda (المثرودة)
Bread broken into pieces and mixed with milk, ghee, and sometimes meat. Variations include boiled eggs, dates, honey, and nuts.
Region: Eastern Libya (Derna, Tobruk, Al Bayda), with local twists.
Fun Fact: Tradition says Mthrouda was the first dish served to Prophet Muhammad upon his arrival at Abu Ayyub’s home, giving it deep cultural reverence.
Basbousa bil Tamr (بسبوسة بالتمر)
A semolina cake layered with date paste and drenched in date syrup, enriched with coconut and almonds, often paired with qashta (cream) and cardamom coffee.
Region: Nationwide favorite.
Fun Fact: Libyan humor claims some girls use this cake as “black magic” to win marriage proposals—many swear it works.
Leka’ek (كعك)
Ring-shaped shortbread made with flour, olive oil, and either sugar (sweet version) or salt (savory version).
Fun Fact: The salty kind is a crunchy bread subs
titute at social gatherings.
Ghoriba (غريبة)
Crumbly round cookies made with flour, sugar, butter, and almonds—classic with Arabic coffee or mint tea.
Magrood (المقروض الليبي)
Diamond-shaped semolina pastries filled with cinnamon-spiced date paste, then fried or baked and soaked in syrup or honey.
Region: All over Libya; origins trace back to Kairouan, Tunisia.
Fun Fact: Known as the “sweet of the Aghlabids,” linking it to a dynasty over 1,300 years old.
Breads – The Everyday Essential
Sand-Baked Bread (خبزة الجمر / خبز الملة)
A Tuareg specialty from Ghadames, baked by burying dough in fire-heated desert sand. Also used for potatoes and eggs.
Fun Fact: In peak summer, the sand is hot enough to bake bread almost instantly.
Libyan Oven Bread (خبزة الفرن)
Soft, spongy wheat bread baked in a clay tannour oven for a smoky aroma.
Fun Fact: Traditionally made during Ramadan and heated with firewood before quick baking.
Healthy Staples – Ancient Energy Foods
Zummeeta (زميطة)
Roasted barley or wheat flour mixed with coriander and cumin, stored dry, then kneaded with water into a firm dough. Often dipped in olive oil or chili sauce.
Fun Fact: Sustained Libyan fighters during the Italian colonization.
Bsisa (بسيسة)
A finely ground blend of roasted grains and seeds—chickpeas, fenugreek, coriander—mixed with olive oil before eating.
Fun Fact: During Ramadan, many Libyans dip dates into bsisa to break the fast.
Drinks – Sips of Hospitality
Rozata (روزاطة)
A creamy almond drink, often served with sweets like ‘Abamber on special occasions.
Fun Fact: The name likely comes from the Italian orzata, meaning almond drink, but it’s now a beloved Libyan tradition.
Libyan Black & Green Tea (شاهي باللوز)
Strong, syrupy black tea brewed slowly over embers, served in three rounds—often with almonds or peanuts in the third. Green tea is enjoyed after meals.
Fun Fact: For special occasions, tea is frothed (reghwa) by pouring it between cups from high above—sometimes 30 times—before topping each glass.
Music of Libya – A Melodic Tapestry of Cultures
Libya’s music reflects its rich history, diverse peoples, and centuries of cultural exchange, blending Arab, Amazigh, Andalusian, African, and Bedouin influences. Each region has its own signature styles, instruments, and performance traditions.
Mālūf (المالوف)
What It Is & History:
A classical music style of Andalusian origin, brought to Libya after the fall of Al-Andalus in the 15th century. Mālūf blends muwashshahat, zajal, and classical poetry in both Arabic and Libyan dialects. Performed in nubat (suites) covering spiritual praise and romantic themes, it is slow, melodic, and deeply rooted in Libyan heritage. The name means “familiar”—music that feels like home.
Where It’s Performed: Tripoli, especially during Mawlid al-Nabawi, weddings, social gatherings, and Sufi funerals.
Performance Style: Lead singer accompanied by a chorus (muraddidīn) and instruments like oud, qanun, violin, nay, darbuka, bendir, and riq. In ‘Aissawiyya processions, reed instruments like ghayta may be included. Performers often wear traditional Libyan attire.
Fun Fact: A full Mālūf nuba can last over an hour without repeating a single melody.
Famous Song: ‘Andak Dawā ‘Aīnī (عندك دوا عيني) — Muhammad Hassan
Al-Magruda (المجرودة)
What It Is & History:
A Bedouin poetic song, also called “Song of the Flag” (أغنية العلم). Its name comes from tajreed (“stripping”), referring to the compact, meaningful verses. Typically anonymous, it combines poetry and rhythm into a social art form.
Where It’s Performed: Social gatherings, weddings, and festive events across rural and Bedouin communities.
Performance Style: Men form a semicircle around the poet, who recites each verse. The men echo parts and clap rhythmically, while women listen. Each verse (ghnawa) is followed by a repeated line (al-shutwa).
Fun Fact: Each Magruda begins with a single line, yet unfolds into an entire story during performance.
Famous Song: Marhbatein Ahlan bil-Jouda (مرحبتين اهلا بالجودة) — Mustafa Al-Bteer
Zokra / Mizmar (الزكرة / المزمار)
What It Is & History:
A double-reed wind instrument dating to the 18th century, producing a loud, piercing sound. Often paired with the danqa, a drum played with a curved stick. Its origins are debated—some trace it to ancient times, others to African caravan traders. Associated with the “Bousaadiya” masked performer, it blends African and Libyan traditions.
Where It’s Performed: Weddings, graduations, and celebrations across Libya.
Performance Style: The zakar uses strong breath control, while the danqa player creates complex rhythms. Performances include group singing and dancing.
Fun Fact: Mastering the Zokra requires intensive lung and breath control.
Famous Song: Ghamazni Qatalni (غمزني قتلني) — Traditional
Zamzamat / Zaghratat (الزمزامات – الزغراتات)
What It Is & History:
Female folk singing at Tripoli weddings, celebrating love, marriage, and social virtues. Rooted in local dialect and customs for over two centuries, it thrives due to gender-segregated celebrations.
Where It’s Performed: Women-only wedding gatherings in Tripoli. Eastern Libya has a similar style called Darbkat.
Performance Style: Women sing, clap, improvise poetry praising the bride or teasing the groom, accompanied by hand clapping and ululations (zaghratat).
Fun Fact: Zamzamat singers are like natural-born poets, improvising verses on the spot.
Famous Songs:
Ishtawa / Libyan Ghinaawi (الشتاوة / الغناوي الليبية)
What It Is & History:
Ishtawa is a traditional poetic singing style from eastern Libya (Barqa), often performed at weddings and celebrations. It involves call-and-response verses clapped rhythmically by hand — no instruments originally, just hand claps imitating gentle rain turning into heavy downpour, hence the name Ishtawa (winter/rain). Over time, instruments like the darbuka and mizmar were added.
Libyan Ghinaawi refers to folk songs expressing social and emotional themes like love, separation, and daily life struggles, split into types such as Ghinaawi ‘Ilm (wisdom), Ghinaawi Ishtawi (emotional), and Ghinaawi Daq Thaqil(strong meaning).
Where It’s Performed: Eastern Libya, especially Al-Bayda, at weddings and celebrations.
Performance Style: Groups alternate verses with hand claps, building from soft to intense. Traditional drums and reed instruments may accompany.
Fun Fact: The clapping mimics the sound of rainfall, evolving into a “storm” over the performance.
Famous Song: Ishtawa - Traditional Libyan Song
Al-Murskawi / Al-Mouskawi (المرسكاوي / الموسكاوي)
What It Is & History:
Al-Murskawi is a popular Libyan folk singing style originating from the southern city of Merzoug (مرزق). It blends Arab-Andalusian heritage brought by the Moriscos—Muslims expelled from Andalusia in the 16th century—with local Amazigh and African traditions. The style spread throughout Libya, especially southern and eastern regions, evolving into various regional forms. It’s characterized by poetic lyrics telling social, emotional, and political stories, often performed in joyous settings but also reflecting historic struggles.
Where It’s Performed: Across Libya, especially in the south (Merzoug, Hon, Ghat, Sabha) and eastern cities (Benghazi, Derna).
Performance Style: Songs combine poetic verses (muwal), melodies, and a fast-paced ending called tabrawila. The music uses traditional scales influenced by Andalusian modes. Lyrics often narrate love, heritage, patriotism, and historical resistance, making the music both entertainment and cultural memory.
Fun Fact: During Gaddafi’s era, it served as a medium for social and political expression.
Famous Song: Biat El-Mahabba (بعت المحبة) — Mohamed Marshan
Al-Nouba (النوبة)
What It Is & History:
Al-Nouba is a traditional music style from the Nafusa Mountains region, also popular in Tripoli. It features poetic singing in the Amazigh language or Tripoli dialect, accompanied by local drums like the danga, tabila, and ghaita. The Tripoli Nouba is a male folk ensemble performing during joyful occasions, blending lively rhythms with wise and celebratory poetry.
Where It’s Performed: Weddings, religious festivals, and family celebrations in Tripoli and Nafusa.
Performance Style: Men form a circle playing drums in sync. One leads with a poetic verse, while others respond. The rhythm is fast and energetic, encouraging clapping and traditional dancing. The atmosphere is joyful, full of laughter and ululations (zaghratat).
Fun Fact: Nouba means “turn” or “session,” reflecting the dynamic, participatory nature of performances.
Famous Song: Nouba Libyenne - Traditional Tripoli
Al-Malala / Boutwil (الملالة / بوطويل)
What It Is & History:
Al-Malala, also called Boutwil in some regions, is a traditional women’s singing art performed during weddings, especially on the henna night. Each Libyan region has its own unique melody and style. The lyrics blend poetry, prose, and rhythmic phrasing, usually divided into three parts featuring elongated vocalizations (mad). Women split into two groups and alternate singing verses in a call-and-response manner.
Where It’s Performed: Bani Walid and surrounding regions, at women-led wedding events.
Performance Style: Women sing with extended vocal lines and poetic lyrics, alternating verses between two groups, often accompanied by simple clapping or hand gestures. The song’s rhythm and emotional tone highlight the communal and festive spirit.
Fun Fact: This art form is one of the few female-led traditional singing styles in Libya, making it a unique and precious cultural treasure.
Famous Song: ليبيا حنه النيرة — Al-Malala
Libyan Reggae
What It Is & History:
Libyan reggae is a unique fusion of Jamaican reggae with traditional Libyan music, emerging in the 1970s. Libyan artists blended reggae’s signature offbeat rhythms and basslines with local folkloric rhythms, Arabic melodies, and traditional instruments. This created a distinctive sound reflecting Libya’s cultural and social realities.
Where It’s Performed: Urban centers, concerts, gatherings, and digital platforms.
Performance Style: Combines reggae’s groove with Arabic scales and Libyan rhythmic patterns, using both modern and traditional instruments. It often carries socially and politically conscious lyrics.
Key Figures:
Ahmed Fakroun — Pioneer of Libyan reggae fusion
Ibrahim Hesnawi — “Father of Libyan reggae”
Famous Song: Subhana – Ahmed Ben Ali
Dance of Libya – A Living Heritage
Libyan dance is deeply rooted in the country’s diverse ethnic, tribal, and regional histories. From ancient folk dances to contemporary traditional performances, each style reflects social customs, historical events, and communal values.
Kaska | Dance of War
What It Is & History:Kaska is an ancient folk dance originating from the Timihu people, depicted on Egyptian temple walls around 5000 years ago in Der al-Bahri. It dramatizes a historic water conflict between tribes, evolving from combat to a celebration of peace. Legend tells of a girl attacked while fetching water, prompting her tribe to fight and reclaim honor—sparking the ceremonial Kaska dance.
Where & When Performed: Across Libya—especially Ghademes, Nalut, Wadi al-Shati—at weddings, festivals, and cultural events. Young men traditionally dance Kaska accompanied by “Zokra” music.
Dance Style:
Performed in a large circle of men holding sticks (symbolizing swords).
Sticks are struck in coordinated sequences, alternating fighting stances with celebratory spins.
Climax depicts a mock battle, transitioning into synchronized dance.
Dramatic versions may feature a female figure with a water jar.
Al-Hajjala – Traditional Female Dance
What It Is & History:Al-Hajjala refers to the traditional female dancer of eastern Libya, performing at weddings and social events. The Hajjala dances amid a male crowd called the Kshakkin, who clap, chant, and cheer.
Dance Style:
Dances follow folk songs such as Aghani al-‘Alam and Ashtawa.
The dancer uses a stick to organize the crowd and maintain personal space.
Continuous body movements respond to rhythmic clapping.
Appearance & Costume:
Head and face partially covered; attire reflects local identity.
The term Hajjala derives from Hajal (anklet) and historically carries complex social connotations.
Al-Nakhakha (النخاخة) – Hair Dance
What It Is & History:A traditional Libyan women’s hair dance, part of the Tabileh Walidiyah art form, performed sitting on the ground with hair swinging in rhythm to drums. Also known as al-nakhiikh or raqṣ al-shaʿr. Rooted in the city of Bani Walid and the Wurfalla tribal traditions, Al-Nakhakha is centuries old and tied to Bedouin wedding customs. Historically, it served as both a visual rhythm for poets and, in some contexts, as a courtship display for unmarried women.
Dance Style:
Women kneel with faces covered, swinging hair side-to-side (al-jal) or forward-backward (al-qalb).
Elder women direct rhythm and maintain decorum.
Region: Bani Walid, Wurfalla, Qadhadhfa, Maqarha, Azumiya, and neighboring tribes.
Kashk Dance (رقصة الكشك)
What It Is & History:A traditional Libyan group dance performed to celebrate weddings, tribal gatherings, and festive occasions. It is a circle or line dance involving rhythmic clapping, chanting, and coordinated steps, deeply rooted in Libyan heritage.
The Kashk dance has been practiced for centuries by the ancestors of eastern Libya, spreading later to cities like Sirte, Bani Walid, and Sabha, and even to western Egypt. It coexisted with the Sanusi religious reform movement in the 19th and 20th centuries, which did not oppose it—allowing it to flourish. Historical figures such as Omar al-Mukhtar and members of the Sanusi family themselves participated in Kashk gatherings.
Dance Style:
Kashk is performed by groups of men (and in some traditions, women in separate gatherings) standing in a circle or a long line, clapping rhythmically, chanting poetic verses, and stepping in unison.
Pace ranges from slow and ceremonial to fast and energetic.
Region: Eastern and central Libya; parts of western Egypt.
Tuareg Amazigh Dance
What It Is & History:An integral part of Tuareg culture in the Sahara, reflecting desert life, traditions, and values.
Dance Style & Features:
Slow, graceful movements inspired by desert environment.
Accompanied by imzad (one-stringed bowed instrument) and Amazigh poetry.
Portrays daily life, weddings, hunting, or celebrations of victory.
Global Significance: Performed at international festivals as a symbol of Amazigh and Saharan identity.
Tasha (الطشة)
What It Is & History:A fast, rhythmic dance from Al-Zawiya region, featuring hand, leg, and hip movements.
Dance Style:
Quick, precise hand, leg, and waist movements.
Shawls or traditional dresses are swayed during the dance.
Accompanied by percussion instruments like daff and zamzamats.
Occasion: Social gatherings, weddings, and celebrations.
Some other folklore Dances:
1. Reception Dance (Raqsat al-Istiqlal)
What it is: A traditional folkloric dance performed on special occasions and religious festivals.
History & Region: Originating from Ghadames, Ghat, and Toinen in Libya, this dance was traditionally performed when one tribe invited neighboring tribes to join in their celebrations.
Dance Style: Groups of young men from the host tribe meet with young men from the visiting tribe and perform the dance at the start of the celebration, symbolizing joy in welcoming guests.
2. Spears Dance (Raqsat al-Rimah)
What it is: A traditional Tuareg dance symbolizing hunting.
History & Region: Common in Ghadames, Ghat, and all Tuareg regions. Historically, the Tuareg relied on hunting wild animals such as gazelles for food.
Dance Style: The performance depicts hunters preparing their spears, surrounding their prey, striking it, and then celebrating their successful hunt before returning to the tribe.
Link: Watch the Spears Dance
3. The Jar Dance (Raqsat al-Barrada / al-Jarra)
What it is: A rural festive dance centered around balancing pottery jars.
History & Region: Originating from rural areas near Libyan cities, it is usually performed at weddings and special celebrations.
Dance Style: A young woman dances with a clay jar (barrada) or water vessel on her head, maintaining perfect balance while performing complex movements. Sometimes, more than one jar is stacked. The dance is accompanied by zokra, danga, and daf instruments.
Link: Watch the Jar Dance
Many other can be found at this link
Traditional Clothing of Libya
Libyan traditional clothing is a vibrant expression of the country’s history, geography, and cultural diversity. With over 55 known traditional outfits, these garments reflect Arab, Amazigh, Tuareg, and Tebu heritage. While modern clothing dominates daily life, traditional attire remains central to weddings, festivals, and ceremonial events.
Historical Background
Depictions of Libyan garments date back to ancient Egyptian temples, with Greek historian Herodotus describing 5th-century BCE Libyan women’s leather dresses. Ottoman influence introduced richly embroidered pieces like the farmalavest. Visual records from French traveler Nicolas de Nicolay (mid-16th century) provide early examples of Libyan style prior to Ottoman expansion.
Traditional Men’s Clothing
1. Headwear
Libyan men’s headwear is rich in variety, often signifying region, status, or occasion. Styles include:
Shenna / Kaboos – A small wool cap (often red or black) worn alone or under a turban. In the west it’s called kaboos, in the east shenna.
Tarboush – Ottoman-style fez with a short black tassel, historically worn by scholars, officials, or those influenced by Turkish fashion.
Taqiyah Styles –
Taqiya Tarablusiya – Dark red cap, often decorated with a buskel (silk tassel) whose position once indicated marital status.
Taqiya Bayoudi – White wool cap with a tuft (shousha) on top, popular in Misrata and Tajoura.
Taqiya Misratiya – Cotton or linen cap in blue, green, red, or yellow, traditionally covering the hair braid (shousha al-sha’r).
Ma’arqa – White cotton summer cap, sometimes worn under a red cap to protect it from sweat.
Kalbak / Kalboush – Ottoman-era wool or fur cap, boat-shaped or rounded, introduced in the 20th century.
Turban (Ammah) and Zamala – Long cotton cloth wrapped around the head, protecting from sun and sand. The zamala is a longer version often worn by scholars or elders.
Shash / telgilmust (in Tuareg: taɣelmust): Men of the Tuareg in southern Libya wear it. It is a blue veil that covers the entire face except for the eyes.
2. Bodywear
The traditional male wardrobe is built for comfort, movement, and climate adaptation, with ornate embroidery for formal occasions.
Al-Kat – A three-piece suit comprising:
Farmala – Sleeveless vest heavily embroidered with gold or silver thread (kharj).
Sirwal – Wide cotton trousers, narrowing at the ankles, tied with a tikka (cloth belt).
Zoboun – Long-sleeved embroidered jacket worn over the farmala.
Bad’iyya – A sleeveless alternative to the zoboun, common in Tripoli.
Souriya – Simple, sleeveless cotton tunic worn under the zoboun.
Jibba – Loose, long-sleeved robe worn in place of the huli or jird, decorated with matching embroidery.
Jird / Hawli – Large wool or camel hair wrap (about 6 meters long) draped over the body, leaving the right arm free.
White Jird – For weddings, ceremonies, and mourning.
Brown Jird – For daily winter wear.
Red Jird – Rare and sometimes considered unlucky.
Special regional types, such as the jird jabbali from the Nafusa Mountains, are highly prized.
3. Footwear
Traditional Libyan footwear blends durability with local craftsmanship.
Balgha – Soft leather slippers with pointed toes, lightweight for indoor or casual use.
Kantra – Sturdier leather shoes designed for long walks or work.
Traditional Women’s Clothing
Headwear
Al-‘Asaba (العصابة) – Woolen band wrapped around the head, often red or black in the south, with central regions favoring decorated versions adorned with silver “الصوالح” fixed on leather.
Al-Maqna (المقنى) – Dark brown ceremonial covering worn only by brides-to-be as a social marker.
Al-Abrouk (العبروق) – Long head wrap (about 4 m by 65 cm) wound around the neck; also refers to an ornate bridal outfit in silver jewelry.
Body Wear
Al-Houli (الحولي) – Main wraparound garment, made of fine silk with patterns, fixed at the left shoulder using a gold or silver “خلال” pin. Types include حولي الحصيرة (Houli Al-Hasira) and حولي بوخطين (Houli Boukhtayn). Everyday wear uses a simpler الرداء (Ar-Ridaa).
Al-Frashiyya (الفراشية) – Full-body covering, often white for daily wear and yellow/sugar-colored for brides. Known for the التبمبيك (At-Tabmbik) style of covering the face, leaving one eye visible.
Akhmasi (آخماسي) – Light white wool cloak with fine embroidery, worn in summer at weddings and funerals.
Al-Jalwa (الجلوة) – Purple bridal gown with a silver-embroidered shawl, traditionally worn when the bride “reveals” her beauty before the wedding.
Al-Khallala (الخلالة) – Dress fastened at the shoulders with large silver pins, belted at the waist, and layered with a covering cloth over the chest and shoulders (الكتفية).
Al-Bakhnoq (البخنوق) – Embroidered and colorful fabric worn over other clothing.
Al-Badla al-Kbira (البدلة الكبيرة) – Lavish bridal attire in Tripoli: silk shirt (قمجة, Qamja), embroidered trousers (سروال, Sirwal), heavily decorated فرملة (Farmala), luxurious الحولي (Al-Houli), and abundant gold jewelry.
Al-Badla al-Sghira (البدلة الصغيرة) – Colorful, lighter, and less expensive than Al-Badla al-Kbira, worn for festive events and on specific pre-wedding days.
Al-Boudri / Al-Houli Al-Boudri (البودري / الحولي البودري) – Pink bridal ensemble: cotton or chiffon neck piece ( مريول Meryoul), wide trousers, and a large silk wrap with silver thread.
Eastern Libyan bridal wear –الزي الليبي الشرقاوي for the “ (Tasandira) تصنديرة” day: includes silver-embroidered رداء (Ridaa), مريول (Meryoul), السورية (As-Suriya), الكردية (Al-Kirdiyya), and other ornate pieces.
Al-Kirdiyya (الكردية) – Velvet sleeveless vest lined with silk, richly embroidered with silver threads, historically linked to Kurdish influence but now a Libyan staple.
Ahwli / Tamlhaft.: The Amazigh women's cloak, specially in the Nafusa Mountains, is distinguished by its bright colors and fine hand embroidery that carries ancient Amazigh symbols.
Other pieces:
The Libyan fan, also known as the "Nshasha" fan, is a traditional handheld fan made from palm fronds in Libya. This fan was an integral part of Libyan homes during the summer, as many people preferred it over air conditioning. The fan is characterized by its bright colors and handcrafted construction, and it was used for personal cooling inside homes.
Traditional Jewelry in Libya
Traditional jewelry is an essential part of Libyan attire, especially for women. It is not merely an adornment but carries deep social and cultural meanings, reflecting social status and wealth, and historically serving as a form of savings. It is characterized by meticulous handcrafted work, adorned with traditional engravings and gemstones such as coral, amber, and beads.
Materials & Symbolism
Silver: Historically the most widespread, especially among the Amazigh and Tuareg, due to the belief that it brings blessings and protects against the evil eye.
Gold: Common in major cities like Tripoli, symbolizing wealth, and extensively used in bridal jewelry.
Stones & Beads: Red coral, amber, blue beads, imitation pearls, and others, often believed to offer protection and good fortune.
Engravings: Ancient Amazigh and Arab motifs such as triangles, circles, fish, and the khamsa (hand of protection).
Famous Pieces of Traditional Jewelry
Neck & Chest Pieces
Al-Khenaq (الخناق): A large multi-layered necklace made of silver or gold, decorated with coral or gems, often the central piece in a bride’s jewelry set.
Al-Hirz / Al-Hijab (الحرز/الحجاب): A central pendant in the khenaq, serving as a protective amulet.
Two-Sided Necklace (قلادة أم وجهين): Decorated on both sides, worn on grand occasions.
One-Sided Necklace (قلادة أم وجه): Simpler design, intended for young girls.
Husn al-Fajra (حصن الفجرة): A long chain ending in a cylindrical ornament, worn beneath the necklace.
Khallal (الخلال): Large decorative pins used to fasten (Al-Houli) الحولي.
Head & Face Pieces
Al-Shanbir (الشنبير): A bridal crown or tiara, often adorned with symbolic ornaments.
Al-Rashghat (الرشغات): Small charms or pendants, including two fish-shaped ones hanging from the shanbir to ward off envy.
Al-Shengal (الشنقال): Gold head ornaments with dangling pearls and decorative pieces.
Al-Sha‘riya (الشعرية): Worn on the head or around the neck, intended for young girls or women.
Sawaleh al-Fajra (صوالح الفجرة): Hollow circular ornaments placed on either side of the face.
Shiyalat al-Fajra (شيالات الفجرة): Chains serving the same function as sawaleh.
Al-Hamila (الحميلة): Groups of circular ornaments on each side of the face connected by a strap over the head.
Hand & Wrist Pieces
Al-Suwar (السوار): Gold or silver bracelets, with varieties such as bu thuma or bu arba‘ thumat, decorated with engraved patterns.
Al-Nabeela (النبيلة): Elegant bracelets, including nabeela salta or toum.
Damj al-Fajra (دمج الفجرة): Smaller bracelets than the nabeela.
Al-Hada’id (الحَدايد): Simple bracelets, including hada’id al-fajra and hada’id khamsa awaq.
Rings (الخواتم): Types include the khatem al-da’ira (worn on the ring or little finger) and the habas (worn on the thumb).
Waist Pieces
Al-Hizam (الحزام): A silver or gold ornamental belt, essential for the badla al-kabeera (grand outfit) and bridal wear.
Ear Pieces
Al-Khurs (الخرص): Large circular earrings.
Al-Tartel (الترتل): Small silver earrings (al-fajra style).
Sawabeq al-Fajra (سوابق الفجرة): Earrings with designs varying by region — some shaped like a khamsa, others as hollow circles, and some as solid circles.
Ankle Pieces
Al-Khilkhal (الخلخال): Heavy silver or gold anklets, especially common in eastern Libya, producing a soft jingling sound while walking.
3. Makeup & Beauty Traditions
Natural Cosmetics – Henna for hair and hands, plant-based oils, herbs, and clay masks for skin and hair care.
Eye Makeup – Kohl applied with a traditional applicator for both beauty and protection.
Hair Styling – Braids and henna-dyeing for special occasions.
Perfuming – Natural incense and scented oils.
Traditional Tattooing ( الدق, Ad-Daq ) – Ancient Amazigh-influenced practice for beauty, identity, and protection from the evil eye. Patterns on the face, hands, and feet often featured geometric, floral, animal, and symbolic motifs.
Resources
My mom, aunt, and brother
YouTube & Video
Websites
Academic Paper
Books
Culture and Customs of Libya – Toyin Falola, Jason Morgan, Bukola Adeyemi Oyenini
Cultures of The World: Libya – Peter Malcolm & Elie Losleben
All clothing pictures are from @qasim_tantoush on Instagram.
KM, till next time <3
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