The Cultural Heritage of the City of Ghadames and the Role of Tourism Development in Activating It

Abstract

This study highlights the cultural heritage of the city of Ghadames (the Bride of the Desert) and the potential for its use in tourism development. The research reviews the city's geographical and natural location, its historical development since ancient times, the customs and traditions of its indigenous Tuareg people, in addition to its distinctive traditional industries such as leather, palm leaf, and wool industries. The study used a descriptive approach and questionnaire analysis. It found that the Ghadames cultural heritage is still alive, its residents maintain their customs but face a crisis of disconnection between past and present, and there is negligence from officials in preserving this heritage. The study concludes with recommendations calling for the creation of tourism projects that invest in this unique cultural and natural heritage.