Apollonia (Susa)
Al Buţnān
Apollonia, located in modern-day Libya's Cyrenaica region, was founded in the 7th century BC by Greek colonists as the harbor city for Cyrene, situated about 20 kilometers to the southwest. It evolved into a significant commercial center in the southern Mediterranean and later became one of the five cities of the Libyan Pentapolis under Roman rule. By the 6th century AD, Apollonia, renamed Sozusa, rose in prominence to become the capital of the Roman province of Libya Superior or Libya Pentapolitana. The city thrived until the Arab conquest in 643 AD, after which urban life ceased. The archaeological site reveals submerged lower city levels due to earthquakes and tsunami, notably the 365 AD Crete earthquake, with upper Byzantine-era strata built atop accumulated deposits. Underwater surveys in the mid-20th century mapped extensive submerged ruins, highlighting the city's complex history. Today, the Apollonia Museum preserves many artifacts, offering insights into its rich past as a vibrant port and religious center, including its role as an episcopal see. Public access to the site allows visitors to explore its remarkable ruins and understand its historical significance in Mediterranean trade and culture.
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Consejo: Visit during cooler months to avoid Libya's intense summer heat. Consider guided tours for comprehensive understanding of the submerged and terrestrial ruins. Tickets may be available at the Apollonia Museum, which houses key artifacts. Early booking for guided visits is recommended due to limited tourist infrastructure. Check local conditions and access regulations, as the site is in a remote area with limited amenities.
Datos interesantes
- •The city’s lower archaeological layers lie below sea level due to seismic activity and tsunamis, making Apollonia one of the rare ancient cities with significant underwater ruins.
- •The 365 AD Crete earthquake and tsunami caused widespread destruction, submerging parts of the city and harbor.
- •Apollonia was one of the five cities forming the Libyan Pentapolis, a notable group of ancient cities in Cyrenaica.
- •The city was renamed Sozusa in late antiquity and became an important episcopal see in early Christianity.
- •Extensive underwater archaeological surveys were conducted in the 1950s by university teams trained in scuba diving, mapping submerged ancient structures.
Historia
Apollonia was founded in the 7th century BC by Greek settlers as the harbor for Cyrene, facilitating trade and regional connectivity.
Under Roman rule, it gained autonomy and became part of the Libyan Pentapolis.
By the 6th century AD, it was renamed Sozusa and elevated to the capital of Libya Superior.
The city suffered extensive damage from the 365 AD Crete earthquake and tsunami, leading to partial submergence of its lower city.
Urban decline followed the Arab conquest in 643 AD, after which the ancient city was abandoned and the modern town of Marsa Susa developed nearby.
Guía del lugar
Underwater Ruins Sector7th century BC onwards
This area contains submerged remains of the ancient city, including buildings and harbor structures damaged by earthquakes and tsunamis. It offers a unique glimpse into the city’s ancient urban layout beneath the sea level.
Byzantine Upper City Remains6th century AD
These ruins stand several meters above sea level, built on accumulated deposits over earlier foundations. They include Christian basilicas and later urban constructions reflecting the city’s evolution.
Apollonia (Susa) Museum
Museum housing artifacts excavated from the site, including pottery, inscriptions, and architectural fragments that narrate the city’s history and cultural significance.