Apollonia (Libya)
Al Jabal al Akhḑar
Apollonia, also known as Sozusa, was founded in the 7th century BC by Greek colonists as the harbour city serving the prominent inland city of Cyrene. It grew into a significant commercial centre in the southern Mediterranean and became autonomous from Cyrene by the Roman period. Apollonia was part of the Libyan Pentapolis and eventually became the capital of the Roman province of Libya Superior or Libya Pentapolitana in the 6th century AD. The city was known for its strategic location on the coast, facilitating trade and maritime activities. Over time, the city experienced natural disasters, including earthquakes and a tsunami in 365 AD that caused extensive damage, particularly submerging parts of the early city below sea level. Archaeological remains include underwater buildings, a theatre, a palace, and a basilica, revealing layers of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine occupation. Apollonia was abandoned after the Arab conquest in the 7th century AD but remains accessible for public visitation. Today, it is an important archaeological site with ongoing studies of both terrestrial and submerged ruins, and a museum housing artifacts from the site. The modern town of Marsa Susa (Susa) grew near the ancient harbour, preserving its historical legacy.
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Consejo: Visitors should plan to visit during the cooler months to avoid Libya's intense summer heat. Pre-booking guided tours or archaeological excursions may enhance understanding of the submerged ruins. Entry to the site is generally accessible to the public, but checking local conditions and security advisories is recommended. The Apollonia Museum near the site offers valuable context and exhibits, making it worthwhile to combine visits. Discounts may be available for students or groups, so inquire locally.
Datos interesantes
- •Parts of Apollonia's early city lie submerged below sea level due to earthquake-induced subsidence.
- •The city was renamed Sozusa in the Roman and Byzantine periods, which corresponds to the modern town of Marsa Susa.
- •Underwater archaeological surveys in the 1950s mapped extensive submerged remains, including buildings and streets.
- •Apollonia served as the harbour for Cyrene, one of the five cities of the Libyan Pentapolis.
- •The 365 AD Crete earthquake and tsunami caused extensive damage to Apollonia's port and city structures.
Historia
Apollonia was established in the 7th century BC as the port city for Cyrene, a Greek colony founded by settlers from Thera.
It rose in prominence as part of the Libyan Pentapolis under both Greek and Roman rule, eventually becoming the capital of the Roman province Libya Superior in the 6th century AD.
The city suffered significant destruction from earthquakes and a tsunami in 365 AD, which submerged parts of the early settlement.
Despite damage, it remained inhabited into the Byzantine period until abandonment following the Arab conquest around 643 AD.
The site was rediscovered and excavated starting in the early 20th century, revealing both terrestrial and underwater ruins.
Guía del lugar
Ancient TheatreHellenistic to Roman period
A well-preserved theatre used for public performances and gatherings during the Greek and Roman periods, showcasing classical architectural styles.
Palace and Eastern BasilicaByzantine period
Ruins of a palace complex alongside the Eastern Basilica, reflecting the city's importance in late antiquity and early Christian times.
Underwater Ruins7th century BC onwards
Submerged remains of early city structures, including buildings and streets, preserved below sea level due to seismic activity.