Ensconced by the desert and washed over by the sea, Tripoli sits sandwiched between two of the most defining geographical features of North Africa. It's a position that has brought it great wealth and prosperity over the centuries, when Roman emperors, Phoenician Greeks, Teutonic Knights, Ottoman invaders and Italian politicos all willed it to become one of the greatest cities on this side of the Mediterranean. The result today is a veritable medley of ruins and relics from bygone eras, ranging from the mighty Red Castle to the crumbling outlines of Roman arches and the spice-scented streets of the old souks. Unfortunately, the modern age has not been so kind to Tripoli. The late 90s saw booming economic wealth from the industrialized port, but then came the upheavals of conflict and revolution in 2011, keeping virtually all tourists at bay and the city susceptible to violence and factional skirmishes. Tripoli tour guides are still waiting for stability to return; for the days when they can showcase the ancient totems and Greek ruins that abound around this culture-packed capital.