Archaeological site of Gightis

Historical Significance and Development of Gigthis

Of Punic origin, this site was identified for the first time on March 18, 1860, by the French Victor Guérin thanks to two inscriptions found on site: the name gigthenses indicates the location of this site. The city of Gigthis is part, in the sixth century BC. J.-C. of the territory submitted to Carthage. In the 1st century, Gigthis was already a city with a fairly elaborate urban fabric. However, it was not until the 2nd century that it became a municipality under Emperor Antoninus Pius.

Architectural Features and Surroundings of Gigthis

This city is bounded to the north and northwest by two Punic-Roman necropolises and a Byzantine fortress, to the east by the sea and the remains of a port, to the southeast by a vast plateau dominated by a temple of Mercury and to the west by the MC 108 road. The history of the city goes back to the Punic era, testified by the two necropolises which date from the 3rd and 2nd century BC. In the second century BC, Gigthis became a Numidian territory under King Massinissa. Around 40 BC, this city was part of Africa Nova created by Julius Caesar. In 27, Gigthis was part of the Proconsular. Towards the end of the 3rd century AD, it became part of Tripolitania.

The Roman Forum and Residential Buildings

In the middle of Gigthis is the Roman forum. All around stand religious and official buildings, the most important of which is the capitol. On the outskirts of the town lie the remains of a series of bourgeois dwellings, some of which retain traces of very beautiful corridors paved with monochrome and polychrome mosaics.

Maintenance and Restoration Efforts

A sustained maintenance and restoration campaign carried out in recent years has made it possible to clear the site and highlight its various components: capitol, forum, sacred spaces, market, living quarters, etc.

Operating Hours and Entrance Fees

Hours of operation:
From 16/09 to 31/05: 09.30-16.30
From 01/06 to 15/09: 08.00-12.00/16.00-19.00
Ramadan Schedule: 9:00-16:00

Entrance fees:
5 TND

Remarks:
Closed on Fridays

Amenities:

Bathroom – Shop – Cafeteria