Althiburos archaeological site

Althiburos archaeological site is located in the governorate of Kef. It was an ancient Numidian city under Carthage‘s influence. Emperor Hadrian granted the city the status of Municipium Aelium Hadrianum Augustum Althiburitanum during his reign (117-138).

The city flourished during the 2nd and 3rd centuries and became a bishopric in the 4th-7th centuries. Eventually, its inhabitants abandoned Althiburos, leaving to settle in Ebba Ksour. This move led to some buildings’ preservation in the neighboring town of Dahmani.

Despite its importance, the site has only undergone a few archaeological excavations. A campaign in 1895, carried out by soldiers, uncovered the mosaic known as the Catalog of Althiburos ships. In 1908, excavations revealed part of the forum, a main street, and a monumental gate with a bay and an inscription dedicated to Hadrian.

Currently, Spanish and Italian teams are working on excavation projects on the site under the National Heritage Institute of Tunisia’s aegis. The Roman theater, situated atop a hill, remains an impressive sight, with only a series of 19 arcades still standing.

The Althiburos archaeological site also includes the remains of a Byzantine basilica and a Christian cemetery, both of which have a rich history. Visitors can explore the ancient city, its Roman aqueduct, and learn about its past, from its Numidian and Carthaginian roots to its Roman and Byzantine periods.

Overall, the Althiburos archaeological site is a fascinating glimpse into Tunisia’s rich history and cultural heritage. Its ruins and monuments provide a unique opportunity to explore the past and learn about the people who lived and worked in this ancient city centuries ago.