The archaeological site of Sbeitla, better known as Sufetula, has well preserved Roman and Byzantine ruins since the city played a major role in the history of North Africa. As is the case with most of the Roman settlements in Africa, Sufetula was originally a military settlement, but it quickly became very wealthy thanks to its rich agricultural hinterland. In the classical era the climate of north Africa was wetter than now, and it was known as the granary of Rome. The triple-arched Antonine Gate, built in AD 139, leads to the forum - the chief public space in Roman Sufetula, one of the best preserved in the Mediterranean region. The archaeological site is next to a museum where many of the historic artifacts excavated from the archaeological site are on display to those who pay the entrance fee.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 16, 2019 00:56 UTC