Trips

 

Wed., 2/22/23 - Dougga and Testour

Today began with a 1/2 mile walk to a Tunisian synagogue - the Grand Synagogue. The synagogue was guarded by armed security and only members of the Jewish faith were allowed in the building. The rest of us stood outside in the morning chill until those taking the tour returned.

Grand Synagogue	Grand Synagogue
Stork nest	Passing through a small town
The drive from Tunis to the impressive Roman ruins at Dougga (or Thugga) took about 2.5 hours. The visit was well worth the lengthy ride! Dougga is sited on a high plateau in the middle of the countryside about 3 miles from the northern Tunisian town of Teboursouk. It is believed to be "the best-preserved Roman small town in North Africa." At the site, approximately two-thirds of the ruins lie uncovered. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. You are encouraged to review the information in the link above and enjoy the photos below. This was a marvelous site to explore.
Roman Ruins at Dougga (Ancient Thugga)
The Theatre
The Theatre	The Theatre
Skene of the ancient Theatre	Skene of the ancient Theatre
Statue of Marcus Aurelius	From the Theatre
Ruins at the side of the Theatre	Road from the Theatre toward the Capitol
Alexander Sevreus's Arch	Temple of August Piety
Temple of August Piety	The Capitol
The Capitol	The Capitol
The Capitol - façade	The Capitol - a decorative capital
The Capitol - a statue would have stood in the center alcove	Roman walls
Remaining part of a Wind Rose Compass The prevailing winds changed direction with the seasons and indicated the time to plant and harvest, etc.
Gate of the Dar Lacheb	Sign for the Gymnasium
Looking to the NW	Temple to Caelestis (in the distance)
The Market	The Market
Roman sewer cover - located at regular intervals along a paved road	Roman road or street
Single latrine	Latrine for many
What we imagine a "modern" Roman would be doing at the latrine	Licinian Baths area
Wonderful stone-work	Licinian Baths
Archway at Licinian or Antonian Baths - looking out toward the countryside	Mosaics
Mosaics	Mosaics
Interiors	Mausoleum of Ateban

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