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The Mausoleum of Ghorfat Ouled Slama, long known as the “Tomb of Tacfarinas,” is a Roman funerary monument located in the commune of El Hakimia, 11 kilometers southeast of Sour El Ghozlane, in northern Algeria.
History
Contrary to initial beliefs, recent research has revealed that this mausoleum is not the burial site of Tacfarinas, the Berber leader who led a rebellion against the Roman Empire in the early 1st century. Archaeological excavations and the study of inscriptions have established that it is actually a Roman tomb dedicated to the relatives of Gargillus Martialis, a military leader from Auzia (modern-day Sour El Ghozlane).
Architecture
The mausoleum is square in shape, measuring 5×5 meters. It is constructed of dressed stone using the Roman technique known as “Opus Quadratum.” The building consists of three stacked tiers. An inscription dating from 439 AD was discovered at the top of the facade, confirming its dedication.
Archaeological Context
The mausoleum is situated within a rich archaeological context. Nearby, the ancient site of Tachachit, located in the commune of Bechloul, also attests to Roman presence in the region. This site, likely a fortified farm or small fort, includes remnants of structures, well-preserved mosaics from the 1st century, as well as traces of pottery, ovens, and a possible olive oil press.
The Mausoleum of Ghorfat Ouled Slama, long known as the “Tomb of Tacfarinas,” is a Roman funerary monument located in the commune of El Hakimia, 11 kilometers southeast of Sour El Ghozlane, in northern Algeria.
History
Contrary to initial beliefs, recent research has revealed that this mausoleum is not the burial site of Tacfarinas, the Berber leader who led a rebellion against the Roman Empire in the early 1st century. Archaeological excavations and the study of inscriptions have established that it is actually a Roman tomb dedicated to the relatives of Gargillus Martialis, a military leader from Auzia (modern-day Sour El Ghozlane).
Architecture
The mausoleum is square in shape, measuring 5×5 meters. It is constructed of dressed stone using the Roman technique known as “Opus Quadratum.” The building consists of three stacked tiers. An inscription dating from 439 AD was discovered at the top of the facade, confirming its dedication.
Archaeological Context
The mausoleum is situated within a rich archaeological context. Nearby, the ancient site of Tachachit, located in the commune of Bechloul, also attests to Roman presence in the region. This site, likely a fortified farm or small fort, includes remnants of structures, well-preserved mosaics from the 1st century, as well as traces of pottery, ovens, and a possible olive oil press.
