Archaeological Site of Sabratha
Unesco World Heritage

Location on Map

Archaeological Site of Sabratha

The Archaeological Site of Sabratha is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the District of Zawia, Libya. This ancient city, situated on the Mediterranean coast, is renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins and is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in North Africa.

History

Sabratha was originally founded as a Phoenician trading post in the 5th century BC. It later became a prosperous Roman city during the reign of Emperor Augustus in the 1st century AD. The city flourished as a major trading hub, benefiting from its strategic location along the trade routes between the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.

Under Roman rule, Sabratha experienced a period of great prosperity and development. The city was adorned with magnificent public buildings, including a theater, a forum, temples, and an amphitheater. The architectural style of Sabratha was heavily influenced by Roman culture, with grand structures built using local materials such as limestone and marble.

During the 5th century AD, Sabratha fell under the control of the Vandals, followed by the Byzantines in the 6th century. The city gradually declined in importance and was eventually abandoned in the 7th century due to the Arab conquest of North Africa.

Current State

Today, the Archaeological Site of Sabratha stands as a testament to the grandeur of the ancient Roman city. The site covers an area of approximately 120 hectares and is divided into several distinct areas.

The most prominent feature of Sabratha is its well-preserved theater, which is considered one of the finest examples of Roman theaters in the world. The theater could accommodate up to 5,000 spectators and is still used for cultural events and performances to this day.

Another notable structure is the forum, a public square surrounded by colonnades and adorned with statues and fountains. The forum was the heart of the city and served as a meeting place for social, political, and commercial activities.

The Temple of Liber Pater, dedicated to the Roman god of fertility and wine, is another highlight of the site. This temple features intricate carvings and is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Romans.

Despite the challenges faced by Libya in recent years, the Archaeological Site of Sabratha has managed to survive relatively intact. However, the site has suffered from neglect and looting during periods of political instability. Efforts are being made to protect and preserve the site, including the establishment of a local management plan and increased security measures.

The Archaeological Site of Sabratha offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich history of the Roman Empire in North Africa. Its well-preserved ruins and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and archaeology lovers alike.

Videos from the area

Tours-TV.com: Sabratha

Published: December 16, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: ToursTV Com

Libya. (塞卜拉泰, サブラタ, صبراتة). See on map http://tours-tv.com/en/Sabratha .

شهداء صبراته

Published: February 14, 2012
Length: 58:21 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: LibyanDesigns

شهداء صبراته.

Photographs of Sabratha, Libya

Published: May 17, 2009
Length: 29:23 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Miklos Kiss

A slideshow of photographs taken in Sabratha, Libya in February 2009. See all of my Libya photographs here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/thesixthland/collections/72157614317513415/

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