Lambaesis

About

Lambaesis was originally founded as a military camp, but expanded into a town during the reign of Marcus Auerlius in the 2nd century CE, populated by Romanized Berbers and some Roman colonists. Eventually it became the former capital of Roman Numidia and was elevated to an episcopal see during Late Antiquity. Once the area fell under Muslim control, Lambaesis was reduced to a titular see, or “dead diocese”, in acknowledgement of its former importance. The most notable remains are the four-sided arch, built in 268 CE, and the amphitheater situated several hundred meters east, built in 169, and some of the foundations poking from the ground were once baths. If you visit in the spring, you’ll find the long-dead ruins brought back to life by vibrant wildflowers.