Around the World: Archaeological Site of Lixus

Casablanca, Morocco

 

This site has ties to four ancient cultures: Romans, Carthaginians, Phoenicians, and Moroccans. Famous for its baths, mosaics, and column ruins, Lixus will transport visitors to ancient times.

Country: Morocco Site: Lixus Caption: Original mosaic of Poseidon at Lixus, Morocco Image Date: 1970 Photographer: Mohssine Dahhan, Common Ground Provenance: 2010 Watch Nomination Original: from Share File
Original mosaic of Poseidon at Lixus, Morocco Photo Credit: https://www.wmf.org/project/lixus

 

Phoenician Settlement

While the native inhabitants of Morocco, Berbers, have been living in the North African region since at least 10,000 BC, it was the Phoenicians who settled Lixus in the 7th century BC. The Phoenicians inhabited modern day Lebanon. Master sailors, the Phoenicians traversed the Mediterranean to establish trade and Lixus was one such settlement.

The city came under the rule of Carthage until 146 AD. During the Third Punic War, Rome destroyed the city of Carthage and assumed control of its empire.

 

Roman Rule

When Carthage eventually fell to Rome, Lixus became one of the main cities of the Roman province of Mauretania Tingitana. Its citizens enjoyed the full rights of Roman citizenship, which was unusual for conquered territories of the time.

 

City of Legend

It was believed that Lixus was the site of the Garden of Hesperides. In Greek mythology, the Hesperides were nymphs of the evening and sunset. It was in their garden that the famous golden apples were said to have grown. Hercules, the famous Greek hero, was tasked to retrieve some of these golden apples.

 

How to Get There:

If your clients are eager to go exploring in these romantic ruins, call Sky Bird Travel. We’re partnered with over 90 airlines, so no matter their city of departure, we can get your clients there. As a top airfare consolidator, Sky Bird Travel has the lowest net fares to get them there. Call or email us today to begin your adventure!

 

Are your clients looking for something off the beaten path? Are they not interested in tourist traps? Stay tuned for our Around the World series. Several times a week, we share interesting things to do in exotic places. Give your clients a new experience in old places!

 

 

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