Cathage Bir Massouda

Abstract

New investigations on the Bir Massouda site have refined our knowledge of Punic Carthage. In particular the southern casemate city wall has been dated more precisely to around the middle of the 7 th century BC. Human remains in secondary position seem to confirm the existence of Carthage’s earliest necropolis on the site. Special attention goes to the Middle and Late Punic periods: a septic pit and its homogeneous fill are presented and discussed in the perspective of Carthage’s garbage collection system. A strongbox or cultic depository with two vessels and red ochre offering is discussed. A terracotta tile floor is presented as a rare example of the pavimenta punica. Finally, some prospects are given on the site conservation’s measures and the publication trajectory.*