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🛒 تسوق الآنExceptional Archaeological Discovery in Libya: Ancient Theater and Rare Greek Race Track Unearthed at Apollonia
Exceptional Archaeological Discovery in Libya: Ancient Theater and Rare Greek Race Track Unearthed at Apollonia
French-Led Mission Reveals Monumental Finds at the Ancient Mediterranean City of Susa
The French archaeological mission in Libya announced a series of extraordinary discoveries at the ancient city of Apollonia, near modern-day Susa, including a seaside theater and a Greek race track described as "unique" in the Mediterranean basin. The finds promise to reshape scholarly understanding of Libya's Greco-Roman heritage.
Professor Vincent Michel, director of the mission, confirmed the discoveries during an official ceremony in Susa attended by representatives of the Libyan Department of Antiquities, the Ministry of Tourism, and local cultural organizations.
A Theater Overlooking the Mediterranean
The newly uncovered theater sits directly on the coastline with a breathtaking view of the sea — a feature that distinguishes it from many inland theaters of the ancient world. Archaeologists believe it could seat hundreds of spectators and served as a cultural hub for Apollonia, one of the most important maritime cities of ancient Cyrenaica.
"This is not merely a new discovery; it is a window into the daily life of a city that thrived at the crossroads of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations," said Professor Ahmed Issa of the Libyan Antiquities Authority.
The Race Track: A Mediterranean First
Even more significant is the rediscovery of a Greek race track that Professor Michel called "one of a kind" with no known parallel in Cyrenaica or anywhere in the Mediterranean. The structure, previously lost beneath layers of rubble and sediment, was identified during targeted excavations in the southern sector of the ancient city.
The track is believed to have hosted athletic competitions and chariot races, reflecting the deep influence of Greek sporting culture on North Africa's coastal cities. Researchers believe it was built during the Hellenistic period, when Apollonia served as the principal port of Cyrene.
Sacred Complexes and New Historical Context
In addition to the theater and race track, the mission uncovered several religious sanctuary complexes. These sacred spaces, adorned with architectural fragments and inscriptions, provide new evidence of the city's spiritual and civic life across multiple eras.
Mohamed Fekroun of the Libyan Antiquities Authority emphasized the significance of the finds. "Apollonia has always been a treasure, but these discoveries elevate it to a new level. We are looking at structures that could tell us more about how Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines coexisted and built upon each other's legacy," he said.
A Collaborative Effort
The ceremony was attended by Nasser Al-Harari representing the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Adel Boufajra head of the Shahat Antiquities Monitoring Office, representatives from the Tourist Police in Susa, the Apollonia Heritage and Culture Organization, and the Susa Scout Group. French archaeologist Jean-Sylvain Caillou also participated on behalf of the mission team.
The mission's work is part of a long-standing cooperation between French and Libyan archaeological institutions that has continued despite challenges facing Libya's cultural sector.
What This Means for Libya's Heritage
The discoveries come at a critical time for Libya's archaeological landscape. While many sites have suffered neglect and vandalism since 2011, the Apollonia finds demonstrate that Libya's ancient heritage still holds immense potential for world-class discoveries. Local authorities hope the new finds will boost cultural tourism to the northeastern region, which already boasts five UNESCO World Heritage sites including the nearby archaeological park of Cyrene.
"This announcement marks a new scientific milestone that could contribute to rewriting the history of Apollonia," the Libyan News Agency (LANA) reported.
The mission plans to continue excavations in the coming months, focusing on fully exposing the theater and mapping the race track's complete layout. Researchers also hope to use ground-penetrating radar to identify additional buried structures.
For Libyan historians, archaeologists, and citizens alike, the unearthing of Apollonia's hidden monuments is a powerful reminder that the country's past still has many chapters yet to be written.
— Libya Press / Culture Desk
