Mactaris/ Mathar

A Carthaginian foundation of the third century B.C., was annexed by Massinissa, recaptured by the Romans when the creation of Africa Nova by Caesar took place, Mactaris was slowly romanised and at the end of the sencond century -between 176 and 180 - it acquired the rank of colony. Having been christianised afterwards, it went under the Vandal control and was later recaptured by the Byzantines. In the medieval period, following a slow decline, it was regarded as a lesser, marginal city. Today the site exhibits important vestiges such as :
° A triumphal arch;
° A forum with a marble floor;
° A temple dedicated to Hathor-Miskar;
° Thermes;
° Buildings used by the schola of the Juvenes, a milicia under the order of a municipal magistrate watching over the safety of the city and its vicinities...
In addition, the site of Mactaris houses a very rich museum with objects from the Neo-Punic period.