After 15 Years, Exploration of Leptis Magna Resumes in Libya

Archaeologists and restoration experts have resumed work on preserving the Roman heritage at the Villa Silin and the ancient city of Leptis Magna in Libya, following a years-long interruption. These efforts include excavations, restoration, and research by a French archaeological mission studying one of North Africa's most significant Roman sites, Leptis Magna, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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The place that was previously in such a state, to now be in the state we see before us, was buried in sand. This mission is what removed the sand and revealed the walls and the bathroom in this form.

The French mission and Libyan archaeologists noted that work at Leptis Magna began in 1986, focusing on the ancient city's urban plan, old port, eastern baths, and underwater remains. Zeid el-Fergani, supervisor of antiquities in Leptis Magna, stated that the site, once buried in sand, has been revealed through the mission's efforts, uncovering walls and baths.

The mission's work was halted in 2011 due to Libya's instability following the uprising that overthrew Moamer Kadhafi. This summer, archaeologists confirmed the resumption of work. Hasan el-Dali, a researcher in the archaeology department at Leptis Magna, expressed optimism about the return of missions and archaeological activity, especially with the opening of a UNESCO office in Tripoli.

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Of course, the return of missions, the return of archaeological activity or archaeological work is very encouraging, especially after the opening of the UNESCO office in Tripoli. Activity has begun, the return to archaeological work in Libya has begun.

Excavations continue, with the vast city still largely covered by sand. El-Dali estimates that only about a quarter of the city has been excavated, with the remainder requiring extensive work over a long period. This year's teams are focused on maintaining and restoring the eastern baths, and they have discovered a pedestrian passage as part of the site's original design. Restoration work on the bath complex walls is also underway to ensure structural stability. At Villa Silin, efforts are concentrated on restoring historical mosaics.

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Of course, excavations in Leptis continue. The city is still completely covered by sand. The area of the city is huge, meaning within the Roman walls there are approximately 140 hectares. The city is still buried under sand, underground. What has been excavated or is visible, I expect to constitute perhaps a quarter of the city's area. Everything else is still buried, still requires very large works and a very long time for this city to fully emerge into the light of day.