Dougga (Thugga)

Dougga is classified by the UNESCO as a  World Heritage (WH) and the best preserved Roman site in Tunisia, dramatically set in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. It was  an important town before the Romans - in the 2nd century BC it was the base of the Numidian king Massinissa, a supporter of Rome against the Carthaginians.  By the 2nd century AD the town came under Roman administration and grew in size and prosperity.
It was an important grain centre and its remains bear witness to
a thriving town.

The site is the largest in Tunisia and includes:

 
  • The Theatre: dates back to 168 AD, it is built up the hill and has a space for 3500 spectators. It is still in good condition and houses the Dougga Festival in summer.

 

  • Temples: there are many around the site including the temples of Saturn, Mercury and Minerva which means that Roman religion was an open religion.


 

  • The Capitol: built in 166 AD. It is one of the most impresssive remains from the Roman era, overlooking the town and surrounding countryside.





 
  • The Forum : once lavishly decorated with marble columns. It lies beneath the Capitol and was the central place where official ceremonies were performed.