 Chemtou is a historical site in the north-western region of Tunisia close to the borders of Algeria. Situated on a distance of 20 Km from the modern city of Jendouba, it has many sites to explore like the marble quarries which belong to the Roman period. Apart from the marble quarries, the museums too hold some of the articles of historical importance.
Hilltop Sanctuary
The hilltop sanctuary in Chemtou which belongs to the 2nd century B.C. was the centre of worship of Punic god Baal-Ammon. Located on the pinnacle of the Djebel Chemtou, the sanctuary has the remains of a marble altar and the base. The items which were discovered during the excavations like the marble blocks and the Egyptian-styled architrave can be found displayed in the museum. In the 2nd century A.D. the sanctuary was extended and was restructured into the temple of Saturn. In the 4th century it was changed into a three-aisled church decorated with pavements featuring mosaics.
Marble Factory
Marble Factory in Chemtou is one of the amazing parts of the archaeological ruins. The factory featured 6 long workshops enclosed within walls and manufactured many articles which were specially export.
Museum
The museum in Chemtou which is located close to the bridge displays the excavation plan of the site and a reconstructed corn-mill. The museum is not open always for visit.
Quarries
If you are interested in history, quarries can be a place to visit in Chemtou. The rocks in Chemtou which are of 20 metre in height highlight Roman quarrying. The blocks left in the quarries have the name of the Emperor, a consul or a quarry official engraved into it. It also provides information of the place from where the section of the quarry came.
Rock-cut Reliefs
There is a series of relief which have been cut in the rocks in Chemtou. The rocks which vary in heights can be found on the south-west, west and northern side of the hill which features the temple. The relief work on the rocks can only be seen only when the sun takes it certain positions and usually show pictures related to sacrifices offered to Saturn. There are probably more than 200 such works in Chemtou.
Simitthus
The archaeological site of Simitthus in Chemtou has much to explore. Located on the foothill, it was of major importance due to the marble quarries. Other important things that are found in the place are the baths, cisterns and the amphitheater. The southern region of the town features a damaged bridge with some of its part lying in river Medjerda and some on its banks. There is also a corn-mill driven by water close to the bridge.
Theater
To the north of the damaged bridge in Chemtou, you will find the site of the ruined amphitheater. The remains of Cavea of Amphitheater is preserved. You can also find the relics of the Forum which has a Basilica and a nymphaeum.
Work Camp
The Work Camp in Chemtou located just a few distances away from the town was built in 154 A.D. and is worth exploring. Covering an area of around 4 hectares, the walls of the work camp encloses numerous courtyards, residences, workshops, bath-house and temples. The work camp housed slaves and workers working in the quarries. |