The city of Oea, on the site of modern Tripoli, was founded by the Phoenicians in the seventh century BCE.

It was conquered by the Greek rulers of Cyrenaica, who were in turn displaced by the Carthaginians.

The Greek name "three cities" refers to Oea, Sabratha and Leptis Magna.

The Roman Republic captures Tripolitania in 146 BCE, and the area prospers during the Roman Empire period.

The Latin name Regio Tripolitania dates to the third century.

The Vandals take over in 435.