Zaltan

Zaltan or Zelten (زلطن) is a town in the district of Nuqat al Khams of northwestern Libya. The town, which has a population of around 17,700 (2009), is on the Mediterranean coast. It is located around 140 km west of Tripoli.

History
The town has been in existence since, at least, Roman times. Archaeological excavations have uncovered, not only parts of the old town, but also Roman olive presses.

Economy
The surrounding area is primarily dryland farming with barley, wheat, olives, dates, citrus fruits, figs, and grapes raised for export. There is a secondary trade in livestock, primarily sheep, goats and camels, brought in from outlying communities. Salt has been collected in pans since Roman times. Zaltan's closeness to the Tunisian border has made Zaltan a regional center for trade. Olive and palm oil are produced locally.

Culture
There is a small museum in Zaltan displaying some of the local archaeological finds, and there is an annual poetry festival.