The Architectural Artistry of Ghadames

Ghadames is an oasis town situated in the Libyan desert. It boasts a myriad of distinct architectural features- especially homes with intricate latticework and designs. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to several ancient Mosques, Bathhouses, and Castles. I observed that buildings in Ghadames featured a collapsible rooftop which helped to keep homes cool during the day. This is likely due to the long periods of intense desert heat. Furthermore, the town had a unique six-level underground cistern system that harvested rainwater- a critical resource in a desert environment. I was able to compare the style of architecture and layout with other desert oasis towns, but Ghadames stood out with its emphasis on aesthetics and artistic expression. Overall, Ghadames was a magnificent display of architectural artistry and innovation. It was a delight for my sensors.