Al Khums is a coastal city located in the Murqub district of Libya. The city has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It is estimated that the current population of Al Khums is around 200,000 people, making it one of the largest cities in the region.
The city of Al Khums is located along the Mediterranean coast, which has been an important trade route throughout history. The city's strategic location made it a key trading hub for the Phoenicians, Romans, and other ancient civilizations. Al Khums was also an important stop for caravans traveling through the Sahara Desert.
During the Roman era, Al Khums was known as Leptis Magna and was one of the most important cities in North Africa. The city was a major center of commerce and culture, with impressive architectural achievements such as the Arch of Septimius Severus, the Leptis Magna Amphitheatre, and the Hadrianic Baths. The city was also the birthplace of the famous Roman Emperor Septimius Severus.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Al Khums came under the rule of various Arab and Berber tribes. The city played a significant role in the Arab Conquest of North Africa in the 7th century. The region was later ruled by the Ottoman Empire and was a part of the Tripolitania region of Libya.
In the early 20th century, Al Khums became a part of Italian Libya and experienced significant modernization and urbanization under Italian rule. The city's infrastructure was improved, and new schools, hospitals, and public buildings were constructed. However, the region also experienced significant resistance to Italian rule, with many locals joining the anti-colonial movement.
During World War II, Al Khums was an important battleground, with British and Allied forces battling against German and Italian forces for control of the city. The city was heavily damaged during the war, and many of its historic buildings and structures were destroyed.
After the war, Al Khums became a part of the newly independent country of Libya. The city continued to experience growth and development under the rule of Muammar Gaddafi, with new schools, hospitals, and public buildings being constructed. However, the region also experienced political unrest and violence, with many residents opposing the Gaddafi regime.
In 2011, Al Khums played a significant role in the Libyan Civil War, with rebel forces taking control of the city from Gaddafi's forces. The city was heavily damaged during the conflict, with many buildings and infrastructure destroyed. The city has since been rebuilding and recovering from the conflict, with new schools, hospitals, and public buildings being constructed.
Al Khums has a rich and complex history that reflects the region's geography and political environment. The city's strategic location along the Mediterranean coast has made it an important hub for trade and commerce throughout history, while its role in various conflicts and struggles reflects the region's turbulent past. Despite the challenges and setbacks the city has faced, it continues to be an important center of culture, commerce, and industry in modern-day Libya.