Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania

About

Detached from the main Tipasa Archeological site, the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania is one of the proudest ancient monuments in the region. The round structure is believed to be the final resting place of the daughter of Cleopatra, Cleopatra Selene II, and her husband king Juba II, king of Numidia and Mauretania, though no bodies have ever been found. Aside from looters, the royal mausoleum has weathered centuries of abuse. The Ottomans tried to destroy it in 1555, but a swarm of black wasps descended on their men, stinging them so severely that some died. Later, the French navy used it for target practice when they occupied Algeria. But Napoleon III, having become enamored with its rich architecture and history, stepped in and demanded the monument be protected at all costs. And so it has been to this day. You can walk around the mausoleum to appreciate its hybrid Classical-Numidian architecture, but cannot go inside. For a more detailed history, you can also hire a local guide.