Misratah, also Misurata, coastal city, northwestern Libya, capital of Misratah Governorate, separated from the Mediterranean Sea by Cape Misratah. It is Libya's third largest city, with an old section of narrow streets and a spacious, modern section with gardens and tree-lined avenues. Carpets and textiles are major manufactures. Formerly known as Thubactis, the city dates from the 7th century.