Makthar (Mactaris)
مكثر
The ruins of the Numidian and Roman city of Mactaris. Trajan's Arch, the great baths and the New Punic stone museum are worth seeing.
Makthar lies on a plateau about 80 km southeast of Le Kef. It began as a Numidian town and later became the Roman colonial city of Mactaris, which flourished most in the 2nd and 3rd centuries. The site entrance has a small museum with many New Punic inscribed stelae and sculptures. The main highlights of the site include the Arch of Trajan, built in AD 116; the South Baths, one of the best-preserved Roman baths in North Africa, with its high walls and vaults still standing; the Schola Juvenum (youth association hall); the forum; a small amphitheatre; and Numidian megalithic tombs. Few visitors come here, so it is peaceful to wander. Entry fees are low. It can be combined with a hired-car day trip to the Kesra mountain village or the Eles dolmens.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–17:30 (closes earlier in winter)
Nearby sights
- Dolmens of Ellès
- Kesra
- Althiburos (Medeina)
- El Ghriba Synagogue of Le Kef
- Dar El Kous Basilica
- Zaouia of Sidi Bou Makhlouf
- Regional Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions
- Kasbah of Le Kef