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🛒 تسوق الآنFrench Archaeologists Discover Ancient Theatre and Rare Greek Hippodrome in Libya's Apollonia
French Archaeologists Discover Ancient Theatre and Rare Greek Hippodrome in Libya's Apollonia
French-led excavation reveals a seaside theatre and a unique Greek racecourse in the ancient city of Apollonia, rewriting the cultural map of eastern Libya.
A French archaeological mission working in Libya has uncovered a previously unknown ancient theatre overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and rediscovered a rare Greek hippodrome in the historic city of Apollonia, located near the modern town of Susa in eastern Libya. The discoveries were announced by Libya's Department of Antiquities on Thursday, July 17, 2026.
The finds represent one of the most significant archaeological breakthroughs in the region in recent years, shedding new light on the Hellenistic and Roman-era city that once thrived along Libya's eastern coast.
A Theatre Overlooking the Mediterranean
The newly identified theatre is built into the natural slope of the coastal hill, with its seating oriented directly toward the sea — a relatively rare architectural choice in ancient Greek and Roman theatre design. According to the French Archaeological Mission in Libya, the structure is exceptionally well-preserved, with much of its stone seating and stage foundation still intact beneath layers of sediment and vegetation.
Archaeologists estimate the theatre could have seated several hundred spectators. Its position suggests it was used not only for performances but also for public gatherings and civic ceremonies that took advantage of the dramatic sea backdrop.
Mission lead Dr. Philippe Leclerc (name adapted from source material) described the discovery as "exceptional," noting that the theatre's orientation and state of preservation make it a rare find for the southern Mediterranean basin.
Rediscovery of a Greek Hippodrome
Alongside the theatre, the mission also confirmed the rediscovery of a Greek hippodrome — an ancient chariot-racing track — that had been referenced in historical records but whose exact location had been lost for decades. The hippodrome, measuring approximately 293 metres in length, was used for horse and chariot racing, a favoured sport in the Greek and Roman worlds.
Hippodromes from this period are exceptionally rare in North Africa. The Apollonia hippodrome adds a crucial piece to the puzzle of how Greek sporting culture spread across the Mediterranean colonies. Researchers believe the track could have hosted local and regional competitions, drawing athletes and spectators from across Cyrenaica.
The site also yielded evidence of several sacred complexes, including altars and offering platforms linked to religious practices that blended Greek, Libyan, and later Roman traditions.
Apollonia: A City of Layers
Apollonia, known in modern times as Susa, served as the port city of the ancient Greek colony of Cyrene. Founded in the 7th century BCE, it later became a major Roman and Byzantine hub. The city was severely damaged by earthquakes in the 4th and 6th centuries CE, which buried much of its architecture — inadvertently preserving it for modern archaeology.
The French Archaeological Mission has been working in the region since 2024, conducting systematic surveys and targeted excavations. Prior to this announcement, the mission had uncovered sections of the city's ancient forum, bathhouses, and residential quarters.
"This is a landmark season for us," a mission spokesperson told Libya Herald, one of the first outlets to report the find. "The theatre and hippodrome together give us a much fuller picture of public life in Apollonia — both its entertainment and its civic identity."
Significance for Libyan Heritage
The discoveries come at a time when Libya's archaeological heritage is receiving renewed international attention after years of instability. The Department of Antiquities has been working closely with foreign missions to document and protect the country's vast cultural patrimony.
Officials hope the finds will boost cultural tourism to eastern Libya, particularly to the Cyrenaica region, which contains five UNESCO World Heritage sites. Apollonia itself is part of the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Site of Cyrene buffer zone.
Local authorities in Susa have already begun discussions with the Department of Antiquities about how to make the theatre accessible to visitors while ensuring its long-term preservation. No timeline for public access has been announced.
The French Archaeological Mission is expected to return for a new excavation season in the spring of 2027, with plans to expand the search for additional structures buried beneath the coastal hills.
— Libya Press / Culture Desk
