Gulf of Sirte

The Gulf of Sirte forms a vast southward bend in the Mediterranean coast of Libya. In antiquity it was called the Greater Syrtis, as opposed to the Lesser Syrtis near Tunisia. Its sandbanks and exposure to northerly winds made it notorious among seafarers. Strabo urged ships to stay clear of the coast, while other ancient accounts record landing places despite the gulf's fearsome reputation. Its waters have also long been known for tuna fishing.