Carthage

The book explores the formation and re-emergence of the archaeological site of Carthage in the early modern world, tracing its history from its founding by the Tyrian queen Dido to its fall in 698 CE and subsequent rebirth as a Roman city and centre for Christian worship. It highlights the exploration of the site by European antiquarians and travellers in the 17th and 18th centuries, which led to the establishment of scientific archaeological excavations and the re-emergence of Carthage from the ruins.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The archaeological site of Carthage has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 1,600 years. It was founded in legend by the Tyrian queen Dido and became a major center of power in the central Mediterranean until its fall in 698 CE. After its destruction, it was reborn as a Roman city and later evolved into a center for Christian worship. In the 17th and 18th centuries, European explorers began searching for the site of Carthage, but were amazed to find that almost nothing of its former glory remained. This led to the gradual and sometimes controversial exploration of Carthage, which has brought the story of this renowned ancient city back into the public imagination. The book follows the many personalities whose interests and diligence led to the establishment of scientific archaeological excavations and the re-emergence of Carthage from the ruins.

One of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean, Carthage was founded in legend by the Tyrian queen Dido. The city was located on the north coast of Africa and dominated the central Mediterranean until its fall in 698 CE. It was destroyed after epic wars with Rome, but was soon reborn as a Roman city. In late antiquity, it evolved into a center for Christian worship.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, European explorers began searching for the site of Carthage. They were amazed to find that almost nothing of its former glory remained. This led to the gradual and sometimes controversial exploration of Carthage, which has brought the story of this renowned ancient city back into the public imagination.

The book follows the many personalities whose interests and diligence led to the establishment of scientific archaeological excavations and the re-emergence of Carthage from the ruins. These include archaeologists, historians, and travelers who have contributed to our understanding of this ancient city.

One of the most significant discoveries made during the exploration of Carthage was the discovery of Punic artifacts. These artifacts, which include pottery, jewelry, and weapons, provide valuable insight into the daily life of the people who lived in Carthage. They also help to shed light on the political and social structure of the city.

Another important discovery was the plunder of the site for the enrichment of European museums. This led to the removal of many valuable artifacts from Carthage, which were sold to collectors and museums around the world. However, this also led to the preservation of many of these artifacts, which are now housed in museums and private collections.

The exploration of Carthage has also been controversial. Some argue that the site should be left alone and that it should not be disturbed. Others argue that the site should be excavated and that its artifacts should be studied and displayed.

Despite these controversies, the exploration of Carthage has continued to be an important part of our understanding of the ancient world. The site has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has attracted millions of visitors each year.

In conclusion, the archaeological site of Carthage has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 1,600 years. It was founded in legend by the Tyrian queen Dido and became a major center of power in the central Mediterranean until its fall in 698 CE. After its destruction, it was reborn as a Roman city and later evolved into a center for Christian worship. In the 17th and 18th centuries, European explorers began searching for the site of Carthage, but were amazed to find that almost nothing of its former glory remained. This led to the gradual and sometimes controversial exploration of Carthage, which has brought the story of this renowned ancient city back into the public imagination. The book follows the many personalities whose interests and diligence led to the establishment of scientific archaeological excavations and the re-emergence of Carthage from the ruins.

Weight: 302g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472522764