An Overview Study of the Baladiya Square in Benghazi City- Libya

Baladiya Square is one of the most important squares in the city of Benghazi, representing the cultural and social heart of the city. It has served as a significant site for historical events that have shaped the city. The square is home to numerous historical buildings of architectural value that outline its boundaries and define its character, dating back to various historical periods. Among these is Al-Atiq Mosque, which dates back to the early Ottoman period and serves as the primary and front-facing element of the square. The Baladiya building, from the era of Italian occupation, along with historic residential buildings exhibiting a unified architectural language, contributes to the square's unique character. Over time, the square has been a meeting point for the local community, serving as a gathering place for writers, poets, and intellectual elites of the city. However, in recent decades, the square has experienced significant changes that have diminished its cultural role. It has transformed into a bustling marketplace filled with shops displaying goods on the sidewalks, negatively impacting pedestrian movement and distorting the overall image of the square. The aim of this study is to explore the Baladiya Square in Benghazi, highlighting its significance as an important urban space that serves as a hub for human interaction. It is a place where activities and recreational pursuits take place, contributing to the strengthening of social bonds and community cohesion. Keywords: Benghazi City, Public Squares, Baladiya Square, Old Mosque, Baladiya Building.