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MAKTAR

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Always controlling the border

maktar Maktar has one of the finest settings of any Roman city in Tunisia, situated on the top of a hill, at almost 1,000 metres, overlooking undulating fields on all sides. Maktar's reason for existence was military, not principally economic. For the Numidians, who founded it, it served as a stronghold against the Carthaginians to the northeast.

Once the Romans had taken control, it served as stronghold against the Berber tribes to the southwest.
In our times, the ancient city of Maktar still manages to excite. It is appears especially impressive because of the modest, but not small, modern town to the north. A couple of locals told me that the ancient city was built by the French, indicating that time doesn't always move forward.
There are some fine things to look out for here. Two triumphal arches is more than most other ancient sites can offer. Also the baths are very nice and large. The museum is not to be missed, and don't forget to stroll over to the intriguing Schola Juvenum, a sort of youth recreation club.

Maktar would survive for a longer period of time than most other Roman cities, right until the 10th century, when the savage tribe of Banu Hillal invaded Tunisia and thrusted it centuries back in development. With them, the economic foundation of Maktar was destroyed.

Triumphal Arch

This is the finest monument found on the outside of the site of ancient Maktar. It lies next to the road, but is surrounded by a tiny garden. The condition is not the greatest, extensive repairs have been done.
Yet, this was the main triumphal arch of Maktar, dramatically set for visitors climbing up the hills to the city.
Right in from the arch was a Tophet, an area for child sacrifice. 85 stelae have been found, but they are all in the museum in Bardo (Tunis).

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