Maktar
| Maktar | |
|---|---|
  Maktar Location in Tunisia | |
| Coordinates: 35°51′38″N 9°12′21″E / 35.86056°N 9.20583°ECoordinates: 35°51′38″N 9°12′21″E / 35.86056°N 9.20583°E | |
| Country |
 Tunisia |
| Governorate | Siliana Governorate |
| Population (2004) | |
| • Total | 12,942[1] |
| Time zone | CET (UTC1) |
Maktar (Arabic: مكتر, Latin: Mactaris), or Makthar, is a town and Roman site in Siliana Governorate, Tunisia, located at 35°51′38″N 9°12′21″E / 35.86056°N 9.20583°E. It is 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 Berbers. 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, lying on a plateau at 900 m (3,000 ft) above sea level, 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
- 1 2 Population Census 2004 National Institute of Statistics (French)
External links
- Lexicorient
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"Mactaris". Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company. 1913.
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