Maktar
Maktar | |
|---|---|
| Country |  Tunisia |
| Governorate | Siliana Governorate |
| Population (2004) | |
| • Total | 12,942[1] |
| Time zone | UTC1 (CET) |
Maktar (Arabic: مكتر, Latin: Mactaris), or Makthar, is a town and Roman-Berber site in Siliana Governorate, Tunisia. It is located at 35°51′38″N 9°12′21″E / 35.86056°N 9.20583°E, around 140 km (90 mi) southwest of Tunis and 60 km (40 mi) southeast of El Kef. The population in 2004 was 12,942.[1]
The ancient town was founded by the Numidians as a defense post against the Carthaginians. It was settled by Punics after the destruction of Carthage by the Romans in 146 BC. Under Roman and Byzantine control, it served as a defense against the local Berber tribes. In 46 BC, it obtained status as a free city and by 146 AD was established as a Roman colony, during which the town saw its greatest development. It was eventually destroyed by the Banu Hillal tribe in the 10th century.
The modern town lies on a plateau at 900 m (3,000 ft) above sea level. It sits on the other side of a ravine from the Roman remains and is known for its scenic views. The town has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers and occasional snowfall during the months of January and February.
References
- ^ a b Population Census 2004 National Institute of Statistics Template:Fr icon
External links
- Lexicorient
- Herbermann, Charles, ed. (1913). . Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company.
