Sabratha

Sabratha
Photo by Solivagant.

The Archaeological Site of Sabratha comprises an originally Phoenician coastal trading post that was remodeled during its time as a Roman colony.

After the Punic Wars, Sabratha became incorporated in the Roman Province of Africa under Julius Caesar. This brought new prosperity, resulting in the construction of public monuments such as the Forum, the Temple of Jupiter and the Theatre. There is also a Christian basilica with remains of mosaic floors.

Community Perspective: not as large as the Leptis Magna site, and its well-preserved Roman theatre is its main attraction.

Map of Sabratha

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Community Reviews

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Jenni B.

USA - 06-Nov-08 -

The deep blues and greens of the Mediterranean and clear blue sky create a breathtaking backdrop for this awesome ancient Roman site. I couldn't help but spread my arms wide for applause as I stood on the theatre stage, and lounge on the steps of the classic Roman bath. Even the marble latrines lured me to take a seat and imagine what life there may have been like.

For about $2, I explored, touched, and experienced a past that I had only read about in a History book. I have been to Sabratha twice, and plan to visit again for the wonderful way my mind opens up to the past with wonder and imagination.

Sabratha is not as large as the Leptis Magna site about 3 hours drive to the east, but definately worth seeing. Each site is unique and beautiful, so I recommend taking time to visit both, preferably Sabratha first as it will take your breath away, then allow Leptis Magna to take your breath yet again when you discover the immense size of the preserved city.


harold mc arthur

united states - 29-Apr-08 -

when I was ten years old, my father was stationed at Wheelus Air Force Base, our family visited the ruins. My sisters and I, were down by the ocean, and I found lying on the ground, a wrapped paper object, with three coins inside. Two coins were smaller ones, about the size of a dime, with nothing on them.

The larger one, was made from brass, with a roman emperor, roman numerals, and perhaps the name of "claudius" on the front. Also on the back, is a standing lady, holding a quiver of arrows, (the goddess "Athena"?), and it's about the size of a silver dollar, and three times as thick.


Solivagant

UK - 10-Jul-05 -

Sabratha by Solivagant

The main glory of Sabratha lies in its well preserved Roman theatre (photo). The site as a whole is not as extensive or fine as that of Leptis Magna and if you are not really into Roman ruins you might even question whether it is worth it. While you are in the region, however, you might as well persevere with these 2 sites, together with the Museum of Tripoli which contains many fine mosaics removed from them (those left in situ are often deteriorating rapidly). Sabratha is pleasantly situated close to the sea. Unfortunately the weather was not so good when we were there – it does rain in Libya! Also it was Ramadan so perhaps we were a bit lacking in sustenance needed to generate real enthusiasm as we walked around unfed - on the journey back to Tripoli we joined the “Ramadan Rush hour” with everyone speeding to get back home before the muezzins announced that it was time to eat and we could join them!


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Site Info

Full Name
Archaeological Site of Sabratha
Unesco ID
184
Country
Libya
Inscribed
1982 - In Danger
Type
Cultural
Criteria
3
Categories
Archaeological site - Phoenician
Link
By ID

Site History

2016 In Danger

Simultaneously with the four other World Heritage sites of Libya "because of damage caused by the conflict affecting the country and the threat of further damage it poses".

1982 Inscribed

Locations

The site has 1 locations

Sabratha