Algeria: Timgad Roman Ruins
Timgad, often referred to as the “Pompeii of North Africa,” is a Roman colonial town located inland from Constantine. Founded by the Emperor Trajan around 100 AD, it served as a military colony to protect the empire from Berber incursions from the south. The town is known for its impressive layout and well-preserved ruins, which include a theater (capable of seating around 3,500 spectators), a library, temples, baths, and a forum. The town was laid out in a perfect grid pattern, following the Roman cardo (north-south street) and decumanus (east-west street) system. The town began to decline around the 5th century, due to invasions and economic hardship and was eventually abandoned and fell into ruin. Timgad was rediscovered in the 19th century during French colonial rule in Algeria, leading to extensive archaeological excavations. Timgad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
