Publications
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.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Coastal Protection of Two Archaeological Sites in Lybia
A multidisciplinary approach integrating multi-beam technology, satellite imagery, and bathymetric surveys has been successfully employed to design coastal protection measures for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leptis Magna in Libya. This method addressed logistic challenges and time constraints while providing detailed morphological reconstructions essential for safeguarding the archaeological site from flooding risks posed by the Wadi Lebda. The study, part of a broader project initiated in 2009, demonstrates the effectiveness of combining advanced remote sensing techniques with ground investigations to support large-scale heritage conservation interventions.
Espaço e Materialidade na Tripolitania Romana: uma tentativa de reconstituição da cidade de Oea em meados do II Século * Space And Materiality In Roman Tripolitania: an attempt of recovery of the city of Oea in the Mid-Second Century
A groundbreaking attempt to reconstruct the lost Roman city of Oea, now buried beneath Tripoli, Libya, sheds light on its material culture and urban space. By analyzing Apuleius of Madaura's Apology—a firsthand account of his public vilification for witchcraft—and comparing it with surviving archaeological and epigraphic artifacts from nearby Leptis Magna and Sabrata, researchers partially visualize the city as it existed in the mid-2nd century AD. This interdisciplinary approach, combining literary, epigraphic, and comparative urban studies, offers a rare glimpse into a Roman city otherwise obscured by modern development.
Degradation of stone materials in the Greek–Roman Hadrianic Baths in Leptis Magna (Libya)
Severe weathering, including honeycomb formation and biological damage, is significantly degrading the limestone and marble structures of Leptis Magna's Hadrianic Baths. This study identifies multiple deterioration factors—such as salt weathering, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and microbial activity—that contribute to structural degradation in this marine climate. The research characterizes the building materials affected by these processes, providing insights into their vulnerability and potential conservation strategies.
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