Home to some of the best Roman and Greek antiquities on the African continent

Home to some of the best Roman and Greek antiquities on the African continent

Located in the seaport town of Cherchell, the Archaeological Museum of Cherchell houses artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine periods, including works by silversmiths and marble sculptures.

The Archaeological Museum of Cherchell is located in the center of the seaport town of Cherchell in Tipaza Province, Algeria. The museum houses what are widely considered to be some of the best examples of Roman and Greek antiquities on the African continent. Cherchell was known as Caesarea of Mauretania during the Roman Empire and served as the rich capital of Roman Mauretania Caesariensis.

Many artifacts from these various periods of Cherchell's history have been uncovered by archaeologists and are on display in the museum. Exhibits include works by Byzantine silversmiths, such as ornately decorated patera, as well as intricately designed mosaics. During the Roman reign over Mauritania in 25 BC, under the leadership of Juba II, a theater, library, and other buildings were established in Cherchell (Caesarea).

Juba II gathered an impressive collection of artworks, particularly marble sculptures, some of which are held in museums around the world. Excellent examples are found in the Cherchell Museum, along with a sculpture of the head of his wife, Cleopatra Selene II. Partial ruins of a Roman theater, Roman baths, and Civile Basilica are located on the outskirts of the town.

The museum's catalogue was published in 1902 by Adolphe Jourdan. Visitors can explore the diverse history of the region through these collections, which represent the cultural heritage of the former capital of Roman Mauretania Caesariensis.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons

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