Gaphara – Minna villa Marci- Ras Chacra – Gasr Jafara : processus de changements toponymiques au fil des siècles ou diversité de sites ?

A comprehensive analysis of the Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna reveals a dynamic history of toponymic changes over centuries, reflecting shifts in cultural and political significance. The study identifies that the site, known as 'Gaphara' during the Phoenician-Punic era, underwent multiple name transformations—including 'Minna Villa Marsi' in late Roman times, 'Ras Cha c ra' in the Middle Ages, and a resurgence of its ancient name 'Gasr Jafara/Djefara' in the late Middle Ages. These changes correlate with shifts from an urban harbor to a luxury residence exploited by the aristocracy of Leptis Magna for olive product exports, followed by its role as an official maritime station before eventual abandonment. The research cross-references literary evidence with archaeological data, providing a nuanced understanding of how toponymic evolution mirrors broader historical and functional transitions at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Abdouli, H., & Ahmed, M. (2022). Gaphara – Minna villa Marci- Ras Cha^cra – Gasr Jafara : processus de changements toponymiques au fil des siècles ou diversité de sites ? Libyan Studies, 53, 70–83. https://doi.org/10.1017/lis.2022.13