By virtue of his acumen, bravery, skill and energy, according to historian Mikhail Mishaqa,[2] Barbar attained high office and acquired standing among the viziers and subjects.
In the early 19th century, he had extensive restoration work done on the Citadel of Tripoli (castle of Saint Gilles), resulting in its present state.
Later on, he endowed large portions of his property in Tripoli to his wives, relatives and slaves (mamluks), shortly after his grip on power was challenged.
[1] He also endowed property in Tripoli for the building of a canal and two water fountains, in order to enhance his local image.
[1] His rule in Tripoli was challenged by Kunj Yusuf Pasha, Wali of Damascus, in 1808, but Barbar withstood the siege with support from Albanian mercenaries.